tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6437557269456755062017-12-10T19:12:49.795-08:00Driving DirectionsDriving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.comBlogger31125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-63199180158133093372017-08-25T18:56:00.002-07:002017-08-25T19:00:37.247-07:00Summer Driving Tips<h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Before You Go</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><h3><b>Get your car serviced</b></h3></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Customary support, for example, tune-ups, oil changes, battery checks, and tire revolutions go far toward avoiding breakdowns. In the event that your vehicle has been adjusted by the producer's proposals, it ought to be in great condition to travel. If not—or you don't have the foggiest idea about the administrative history of the vehicle you intend to drive—plan a preventive support check up with your technician immediately.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TSeXN0OSh_E/WaDSpjF8hGI/AAAAAAAAAR8/7bBi1745G-gSIB60grlSdzKJK0p5tHHagCLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_575376397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="1000" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TSeXN0OSh_E/WaDSpjF8hGI/AAAAAAAAAR8/7bBi1745G-gSIB60grlSdzKJK0p5tHHagCLcBGAs/s400/shutterstock_575376397.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><h3>Check for recalls</h3></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Proprietors may not generally realize that their vehicle has been reviewed and should be repaired. NHTSA's VIN look-into device gives you a chance to enter a Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to rapidly learn if a particular vehicle has not been repaired as a feature of a well-being review over the most recent 15 years.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b><br /><h3><b>Go over your vehicle safety checklist</b></h3></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Notwithstanding how well you deal with your ride, it's imperative to play out the accompanying fundamental well-being checks before you go on a street trip.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zIKy3cEIT3Q/WaDTLy5xH6I/AAAAAAAAASA/LUlINFASSo0oilrexLhowrBXvbbVq6H1wCLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_365480828.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zIKy3cEIT3Q/WaDTLy5xH6I/AAAAAAAAASA/LUlINFASSo0oilrexLhowrBXvbbVq6H1wCLcBGAs/s400/shutterstock_365480828.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><b>Tires</b><br />Air pressure, tread wear, spare<br /><b>Lights</b><br />Headlights, brake lights, turn signals, emergency flashers, interior lights, and trailer lights<br /><b>Cooling System</b><br />Coolant level and servicing<br /><b>Fluid Levels</b><br />Oil, brake, transmission, power steering, and windshield washer fluids<br /><b>Belts and Hoses</b><br />Condition and fittings<br /><b>Wiper Blades</b><br />Wear and tear on both sides<br /><b>Air Conditioning</b><br />A/C check<br /><b>Floor Mats</b><br />Proper size and correct installation<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><h2><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span></h2><h2><span style="color: #0b5394;">Safety First</span></h2><div><div><h3><b>Protect yourself and your loved ones</b></h3></div><div>Buckle Up—Every Trip, Every Time. All passengers must agree to wear their seat belts every time they are riding in your vehicle. Set the example by always wearing your seat belt.</div><div><h3><b>Protect the children</b></h3></div><div>When traveling with children, take every precaution to keep them safe.</div><div><ul><li>All children under 13 should ride in the back seat.</li><li>Make sure car seats and booster seats are properly installed and that any children riding with you are in the correct car seat, booster seat, or seat belt that is appropriate for their size. All passengers in your vehicle should be buckled up on every trip, every time.</li><li>Never leave your child unattended in or around your vehicle.</li><li>Always remember to lock your vehicle when exiting so children do not play or get trapped inside.</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0DHGkKEIQL4/WaDVJOWL3WI/AAAAAAAAASY/f7ZkU6ZtdLwV1giZU7QE2mZV903y-c9QACLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_616562402.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="673" data-original-width="1000" height="268" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0DHGkKEIQL4/WaDVJOWL3WI/AAAAAAAAASY/f7ZkU6ZtdLwV1giZU7QE2mZV903y-c9QACLcBGAs/s400/shutterstock_616562402.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><h2><span style="color: #0b5394;">Summer Safety&nbsp;</span></h2><h3><b>Protect kids in and around the car</b></h3><div>You should realize that there are different threats to kids in and around autos. One of those threats is hyperthermia or heat stroke. Heatstroke can happen when a youngster is left unattended in a stopped vehicle or additions unsupervised access. Never allow kids to sit unbothered in the auto—not notwithstanding for a couple of minutes or with the motor running. Vehicles warm up rapidly; if the outside temperature is in the low 80s°, the temperature inside the vehicle can achieve destructive levels in only a couple of minutes—even with a window moved down. A kid's body temperature rises three to five times quicker than that of a grown-up.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Igze5JhhcSk/WaDUObC0GiI/AAAAAAAAASM/o-tkTrn_6c0_e2Zm-fQm-50UtAvWu0LyQCLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_273871094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Igze5JhhcSk/WaDUObC0GiI/AAAAAAAAASM/o-tkTrn_6c0_e2Zm-fQm-50UtAvWu0LyQCLcBGAs/s400/shutterstock_273871094.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Before you pull out of a garage or parking space, avert backovers by strolling around your vehicle to check for youngsters running and playing. When utilizing a reinforcement camera, recollect that children, pets, and protests may even now be out of view however in the way of your vehicle. At the point when kids play, they are regularly unaware of autos and trucks around them. They may trust that drivers will keep an eye out for them. Moreover, every vehicle has a visually impaired zone. As the size and tallness of vehicle expand, so does the "visually impaired zone" range. Huge vehicles, trucks, SUVs, RVs, and vans, are more probable than autos to be associated with backovers.&nbsp;</div><div><br /></div><div>Make sure to bolt your vehicle's entryways constantly when it's not being used. Put the keys some place that youngsters can't get to them. Kids who enter vehicles all alone with no grown-up supervision can be murdered or harmed by control windows, safety belt snare, vehicle rollaway, warm stroke or trunk entanglement.</div></div></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Follow our site to get more information and tips about <a href="https://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank">driving directions</a>.</div></div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-63919981255130250712017-08-18T19:02:00.001-07:002017-08-18T19:02:29.139-07:00DIY Top 10 Driving and Travel Tips<div style="text-align: justify;">Driving is an unavoidable truth for the vast majority of us, yet it doesn't need to be simply one more errand. Benefit as much as possible from your driving time with these ten hints for streamlining your opportunity in the auto.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">10. De-ice your windshield with home-made arrangements</span>&nbsp;</h2><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sOJsZumu2Ps/WZeZ4p0hrZI/AAAAAAAAARM/1WKRlx_ALcMZi7vYcM0781C7A-seGiIrACLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_437367016.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sOJsZumu2Ps/WZeZ4p0hrZI/AAAAAAAAARM/1WKRlx_ALcMZi7vYcM0781C7A-seGiIrACLcBGAs/s400/shutterstock_437367016.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We truly burrowed the Dollar Stretcher blog's formula for DIY de-icer—just 3 sections vinegar to 1 section water in a splash bottle, connected before a chilly and wet night. Be that as it may, our analysts have their very own couple answers for frosty climate autos. Among their recommendations: some cool water and a decent scrubber; essentially covering your windshield with cardboard; and notwithstanding utilizing the A/C and warmth at the same time. While you're gathering your hostile to ice weapons, keep a little without water hand sanitizer helpful—it can de-ice a bolt.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">9. Show signs of improvement sound from your iPod&nbsp;</span></h2><div><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Those whose processing plant stereo decks do not have a frontal contribution for an iPod or other MP3 player realize that FM transmitters are no substitution for a basic wire. Yet, you can confine the quantity of sound break-ins from radio stations and other autos' gadgets with Sirius' FM Channel Finder, which finds the most discharge radio spots in your ZIP code. Then again, in case you're not hesitant to yank the stereo out of the dash and include your own particular stereo information sources, it's in reality truly straightforward; we've beforehand indicated two arrangements, one with fastening, the other without (look down to "Wire Your Car Stereo for an iPod"). In the event that none of that takes, you've generally got the "atomic alternative," at any rate on the off chance that you have an effortlessly removable outside radio wire—simply yank it out and start up the recently enabled FM transmitter.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">8. Set up together a quality crisis auto pack&nbsp;</span></h2><div><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--iwEC6KnGO0/WZeabrrZ3PI/AAAAAAAAARU/QHR8ujUEDlIKyHYwExa5XmmnKxJ6SaODACLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_260758214.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="665" data-original-width="1000" height="265" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--iwEC6KnGO0/WZeabrrZ3PI/AAAAAAAAARU/QHR8ujUEDlIKyHYwExa5XmmnKxJ6SaODACLcBGAs/s400/shutterstock_260758214.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">You'll ideally never need to haul out your first aid pack in a genuine or-passing circumstance. Whenever you're in your auto and not going anyplace, however, you'll be happy you're readied. Edmunds.com has a broad, constantly arranged pack list, which appears a little OCD until you've at any point endeavored to call a tow truck organization in the obscure nation, at long last finding a solution of "later this evening" (genuinely). Our educated, street prepared perusers additionally have a considerable measure of incredible proposals for explorers with a wide range of requirements.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">7. Keep a level head, reconsider your driving system&nbsp;</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">You can't control activity and street conditions over your whole drive, however, you can control the way your mind takes it in and manages it. We're not discussing an unclear, everything's-going to be-okay sense, either—there are some basic, thought-by-thought changes you can make, as clarified by driving master Tom Vanderbilt. One of the key changes is discharging your outrage at "late mergers," and curtailing your own quick path evolving:&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Furthermore, switching to another lane is counter-beneficial. It builds the danger of a mishap, makes a driver more pushed and doesn't have much effect. At the point when tried in Canada, the driver that switched to another lane at each open door just made four minutes in an 80-minute drive.&nbsp;</div><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span></h2><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">6. Try not to get compelled into 3,000-mile oil changes&nbsp;</span></h2><div><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wOHUfg-2-cY/WZeaznKO2lI/AAAAAAAAARY/SK_jFQLDNk8et2RAhkD7v7loFezqYFtbwCLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_590265665.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wOHUfg-2-cY/WZeaznKO2lI/AAAAAAAAARY/SK_jFQLDNk8et2RAhkD7v7loFezqYFtbwCLcBGAs/s400/shutterstock_590265665.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hurray Autos/Greencar.com composed it in the first place, and we concur—you most likely needn't bother with an oil change each 3,000 miles. Air out your the proprietor's manual for your vehicle—no, truly, venture into the glove box for it—and you'll regularly discover inside a suggestion for changes each 5,000, 7,000, or, at times, each 10,000 miles. Giving into social/corporate weight just pulls money from your pocket, and gives the earth more administered oil to manage. Be overcome rather and drive directly past the 15-minute fast lube joints with your little "mystery." Photo by Vanlaar.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">5. Remain alerted on lengthy drives</span>&nbsp;</h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For those long, multi-state pulls or the (calm) commute home following a late night, you may think a brisk snooze in a parking garage or rest stop may be the best thing for saggy eyelids. Not really, as indicated by French specialists, as caffeine wins out finished snoozes for each age gathering, however particularly among those 30 and more seasoned. Obviously, there's a center ground for rest darlings and French meal consumers—the shrewd caffeine snooze, which requires drinking a measure of java just before a rest no longer than 15 minutes. You'll wake up with the double advantages of an energizing rest and sharpness boosting caffeine, and you're prepared to gaze past another arrangement of mile markers.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">4. Utilize your fuel productively&nbsp;</span></h2><div><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MWiFRWXg2cY/WZebMZgLlKI/AAAAAAAAARc/ADgRC174vTIWBRDHHqf87w9QZ-ClLPvHQCLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_655488547.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MWiFRWXg2cY/WZebMZgLlKI/AAAAAAAAARc/ADgRC174vTIWBRDHHqf87w9QZ-ClLPvHQCLcBGAs/s400/shutterstock_655488547.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It's constantly extraordinary when one of our in an unexpected way fixated in web journals makes a trip to drop some science, and Jalopnik's visit amid the times of super-costly gas demonstrated the same, presenting five approaches to utilize less fuel and still get where you're going. Here's the most straightforward, no-apparatuses required tip:&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Top off your vehicle amid the coolest piece of the day. With more seasoned pumps that don't have a temperature-remunerating stream meter, fuel is denser when it's cool, so you really get more for your cash when you direct gas in the early AM as opposed to topping off at 5:30 PM on your route home from work.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Gas may not cost more per gallon than an esteem feast nowadays—well, contingent upon your chain of decision—yet it's as yet not shoddy, so utilize it admirably.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">3. Take in the privileged insights of parallel stopping&nbsp;</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">On the off chance that you secured your permit without getting the hang of the wheel-wrenching parallel stopping schedule, Ann's Driving School has some particular parallel stopping tips for getting more alright with stopping between autos. Nothing beats certifiable practice, obviously, however, Ann's offers a deliberate approach—and, as a few perusers called attention to, is situated in San Francisco, where expedient road stopping is somewhat of an existing need.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">2. Get a genuine workman (or possibly maintain a strategic distance from shams)&nbsp;</span></h2><div><span style="color: #0b5394;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G49Di6ZT6A0/WZeb9xEytUI/AAAAAAAAARk/vUVXtYLxRVYkHQrHSETyssjse-2tiuLUQCLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_394249531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="675" data-original-width="1000" height="270" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G49Di6ZT6A0/WZeb9xEytUI/AAAAAAAAARk/vUVXtYLxRVYkHQrHSETyssjse-2tiuLUQCLcBGAs/s400/shutterstock_394249531.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Dental practitioner, handyman, and workman—everyone needs one of every they can trust (however bookkeeper wouldn't do any harm, as well). On the auto front, ask your companions, associates, and neighbors for proposals, and utilize an examination site like the already said RepairPal to perceive how near the stamp your appraisals are. Can't develop the fearlessness to talk about what your auto truly needs? Attempt basically conveying your upkeep manual to the shop and demanding what's essential. At last, look at VideoJug's exhibition of five repairs a somewhat shady shop may attempt to weight you.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">1. Handle an activity stop, potentially skirt a ticket&nbsp;</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Nothing, besides a time machine, can get you out of an activity ticket unfailingly, however, there are approaches to enhance your treatment of the entire circumstance. Amid the stop, for example, don't attempt to inspire by rapidly getting your permit, enrollment, and protection printed material—simply sit with your hands on the wheel. It's one of five do's and five don'ts assembled via Car and Driver with the assistance of state troopers. Once you have the ticket, don't snatch the checkbook and stamps immediately. Consider, for instance, that we said, even a trooper's chaotic penmanship can beat that movement ticket.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Follow our site to get more tips about <a href="https://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank">driving directions</a>.</div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-90166939185822732622017-08-10T20:33:00.001-07:002017-08-10T20:33:29.339-07:00Top 10 tips for driving through France<div style="text-align: justify;">In case you're off on vacation to the mainland this late spring, at that point, you'll more than likely need to drive through France to achieve your goal.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Be that as it may, with contrasting activity laws over the Channel, it's vital to know the controls and what you have to legitimately convey for a hike to France.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mAQ1mmCBdUQ/WY0jkNZcGNI/AAAAAAAAAQg/TpCgZUqe9-sVSTCjc4TclTBA_7RJ8t9hACLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_317347868.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mAQ1mmCBdUQ/WY0jkNZcGNI/AAAAAAAAAQg/TpCgZUqe9-sVSTCjc4TclTBA_7RJ8t9hACLcBGAs/s400/shutterstock_317347868.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">Here are our best 10 hints for driving in France&nbsp;</span></h3><div style="text-align: justify;">(For a more broad manual for what archives you require, refreshed principles of the street, activity news, and consulate data visit our full driving in France exhortation page.)&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Refreshed: Remember those of you driving through bigger urban communities should buy a French clean air sticker as they are currently compulsory in specific zones.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">On the off chance that you don't have one you may get a fine or not have the capacity to enter certain urban areas at specific circumstances.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">These perfect air stickers, known as Crit'air stickers, mean the level of discharges your vehicle creates and depends on your auto's Euro emanations rating. There's a possibility on the off chance that you drive a marginally more established auto, it won't be permitted into specific urban areas at specific circumstances in view of air quality levels on that day.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">1. High permeability vest(s)&nbsp;</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">A high permeability vest (one for each traveler) must be conveyed inside the traveler compartment of your vehicle if there should be an occurrence of an auto breakdown.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Try not to reject this as a senseless run – the French police will stop British-enlisted vehicles to check they have the right hardware for driving in France.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">On the off chance that you break down on the motorway or need to repair a cut, ensure you wear it when you venture out of the vehicle or you could hazard a heavy fine.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">2. Cautioning triangle&nbsp;</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p9UuPRFzQJA/WY0kDHvA8SI/AAAAAAAAAQo/CtDfFhP--dwOVpnWKH6FdJRo3AqSBYCxQCLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_341736455.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-p9UuPRFzQJA/WY0kDHvA8SI/AAAAAAAAAQo/CtDfFhP--dwOVpnWKH6FdJRo3AqSBYCxQCLcBGAs/s320/shutterstock_341736455.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Alongside a high-vis vest for the greater part of the auto's inhabitants, a notice triangle is a legitimate prerequisite in France.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Most present day autos now accompany one fitted as standard, however, don't depend upon the maker giving you one.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Continuously check if there's one present in your auto before you leave – it is an incredible method for notice activity of your stranded vehicle ahead should you encounter trouble which will come approach to protecting you.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">3. Save globules&nbsp;</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">By law you're additionally commanded to convey an extra knob pack for your vehicle, should you have a disappointment.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">While most drivers in the UK would get a broken globule settled at the earliest opportunity, the French police esteem it important to supplant it there and after that on the grounds of well-being.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For a couple of pounds to purchase a pack, you could keep away from undesirable consideration and a fine.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">4. Fog light shaft agents&nbsp;</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eClDAHs0Te4/WY0kmhh4gZI/AAAAAAAAAQw/Ei6hbecIGN49g-wn5lbecO1DT0Tawg0kwCLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_295221500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="583" data-original-width="1000" height="232" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eClDAHs0Te4/WY0kmhh4gZI/AAAAAAAAAQw/Ei6hbecIGN49g-wn5lbecO1DT0Tawg0kwCLcBGAs/s400/shutterstock_295221500.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Present day auto's headlights are set up to point towards the near side – or curb side – of the vehicle.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">A right-hand drive auto on the right-hand side of the carriage way implies this could daze approaching movement around evening time.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Either alter the edge of your headlights or fit front lamp bar agents to remunerate and help enhance security by expanding permeability on the near side.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>5. Breathalyzer unit&nbsp;</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">All drivers and motorcyclists should convey an individual breathalyzer pack, with no less than two dispensable testing units.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The units are generally shabby and can be grabbed for around five pounds or less – don't go for a modest web thing, however, or on the off chance that you do, ensure it meets NF principles (like BSI here in the UK).&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Refresh - as of January 2013 the French government declared that the presentation of a €11 fine has been delayed inconclusively.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The greater part of the above things can be bought in a European Driving Kit from £20.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">European breakdown cover&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">European breakdown cover&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Wherever you wind up on vacation, we have you secured&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Get a quote&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">6. Lower drink-drive constraint&nbsp;</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Following on from this, be careful with the lower blood-liquor confined in France.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In England, Wales and Northern Ireland the blood-liquor confine is 80mg for each 100ml of blood, in any case, in France it is (the same as in Scotland) it is 50mg for every 100ml of blood.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Likewise for drivers with under three years' experience as far as possible has been brought down from 0.5 grams for each liter to 0.2 grams for each liter.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Despite the fact that it's not a correct science – you're full of feeling legitimate liquor utilization is almost divided. Does that additional drink appear to be justified, despite all the trouble now?&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">7. Speed limits&nbsp;</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B4XhZKJvs2k/WY0k-AdDIcI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/wIl8E_9jr1wJbyoOJDQ5JuUkP896LoNjACLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_66276397.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="213" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B4XhZKJvs2k/WY0k-AdDIcI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/wIl8E_9jr1wJbyoOJDQ5JuUkP896LoNjACLcBGAs/s320/shutterstock_66276397.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Much the same as the UK, there are set speed limits for rustic and urban territories that don't generally highlight rehashed signage.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Be aware of your environment and modify your driving as needs are.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As a general rule, developed zones are typically 50kph, yet can be lessened to 30 in local locations.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Trunk streets are 90kph (unless generally coordinated) in the dry and 80kph in the wet, while motorways are 130kph (unless generally coordinated) in the dry and 110kph in the wet.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For additional on speed limits click here.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">8. Tyke travelers&nbsp;</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">One to note, youngsters less than 10 years old are not permitted to go on the front seats of vehicles without exercise an uncommon tyke self-control, unless there is no back seat in the vehicle or the back seat is as of now possessed with kids under 10, or there are no safety belts.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Children up to nine months in a back confronting youngster situate are an exemption to the administer moreover.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #0c343d;"><b>9. Radar finders&nbsp;</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Radar finders used to chase out portable speed firearms are unlawful in France and in case you're discovered conveying one – even in the boot – you'll be met by extremely strict discipline.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is one transgression the French police don't warmly embrace and you abandon yourself open to a base €2,000 fine in the event that you break it.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;">10. Odd driving practices&nbsp;</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #0c343d;"><br /></span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QrfKZpaqYek/WY0lWDokPUI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/cYVuHYwx0QAuQwpilnI1d5NSu8GO3rUigCLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_567955753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="668" data-original-width="1000" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QrfKZpaqYek/WY0lWDokPUI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/cYVuHYwx0QAuQwpilnI1d5NSu8GO3rUigCLcBGAs/s400/shutterstock_567955753.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Be aware of old French driving traditions, for example, offering an approach to activity advancing onto a circuitous.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the most part, this convention has ceased to exist, however, some French drivers still maintain the previous law, which means they'll shoot out onto the movement island all of a sudden.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The vital thing to recollect is to be careful when driving in Europe in case you're taking off there this late spring.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Follow our site to get more tips about <a href="https://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank">driving directions</a>.</div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-2160602844414904342017-08-04T20:40:00.004-07:002017-08-04T20:42:43.056-07:00Most Helpful Tips for Visitors Driving in the USA<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The United States is a right-hand driving country! You probably know what right-hand traffic or left-hand traffic means. Two-way traffic must keep either on the left or right side of the road unless otherwise directed. Sometimes this is called The Rule of the Road. It helps improve traffic flow (your ability to get where you're going quickly) and cuts down on traffic fatalities.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BfvOhGyUTag/WYU9smH3BFI/AAAAAAAAAQE/sKwwkUAMRlYC14fmN6ncTgh2v-9P5sydACLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_147954134.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="664" data-original-width="1000" height="265" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BfvOhGyUTag/WYU9smH3BFI/AAAAAAAAAQE/sKwwkUAMRlYC14fmN6ncTgh2v-9P5sydACLcBGAs/s400/shutterstock_147954134.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #990000;">Essential tips for driving in the United States</span></h3><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Roadway signs in the USA commonly use symbols instead of words to communicate with drivers, regardless of language barriers. The color and shape of each sign usually indicate the type of information the sign conveys. Familiarize yourself with traffic sign symbols to maximize your safety when driving in the United States. Visit United States Road Symbol Signs at the Federal Highway Administration website for a full list of signs!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #990000;">Here's what you need to know if you are planning an American road trip for your next vacation</span></h3><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you're driving slowly - perhaps just getting used to the traffic - the best lane for you to drive in is the far right lane, if there is more than one lane going in the same direction as you, of course!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">When traveling on a freeway or highway, your car should stay in the right lane, unless you're passing another vehicle. There are often signs to remind you of this. However, be aware that on Interstate highways, the right lane within an urban area is sometimes only for existing (leaving) the Interstate at the next opportunity.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><ul><li>If you're driving slowly - perhaps just getting used to the traffic - the best lane for you to drive in is the far right lane, if there is more than one lane going in the same direction as you, of course!</li></ul><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">When traveling on a freeway or highway, your car should stay in the right lane, unless you're passing another vehicle. There are often signs to remind you of this. However, be aware that on Interstate highways, the right lane within an urban area is sometimes only for existing (leaving) the Interstate at the next opportunity.&nbsp;</li></ul><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">If you're at an intersection, American drivers usually defer to the vehicle who arrived at the intersection first. If two vehicles get there at the same time, the driver on the right proceeds, unless stopped by a red STOP or YIELD sign.</li></ul><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Don't honk your horn, unless you're in a situation where you need to get the attention of another driver or pedestrian. For example, it's okay to honk when another car is about to hit you, but you may find that honking in the USA is less common than in other nations.</li></ul><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">The speed limit in a residential area is often 35 miles per hour (60kph) but is as low as 25 or 30 miles per hour in many areas. On Interstate highways and roads with very little traffic and intersections, the speed limit is commonly 55 miles per hour or greater.</li></ul><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Based on the information released by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration about “Traffic Safety Facts 2015: Alcohol-Impaired Driving,” it revealed that 10,265 people have died in drunk driving crashes - one every 51 minutes - and 290,000 were injured in drunk driving crashes. Remember to always make allowances when driving, And never ever exceed the legal blood alcohol limit which is 0.08.</li></ul><br /><ul></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4pqd1mOPTyQ/WYU-GyAUNcI/AAAAAAAAAQI/qZMxrAPY_qgPZADFpwEZhzOyWLYXRh55wCLcBGAs/s1600/shutterstock_318025772.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="668" data-original-width="1000" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4pqd1mOPTyQ/WYU-GyAUNcI/AAAAAAAAAQI/qZMxrAPY_qgPZADFpwEZhzOyWLYXRh55wCLcBGAs/s400/shutterstock_318025772.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #990000;">Know the rules for each rental car company for foreign visitors</span></h3><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />Keep in mind that each company's terms and conditions will tell you everything you need to know about the company's requirements regarding car rental insurance, driver's license requirements, and whether or not you are allowed to drive the rental car out of the U.S. (to Canada or Mexico).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Follow our site to get more about <a href="https://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank">driving directions</a></div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-3500443123842882092017-07-27T20:49:00.001-07:002017-07-27T20:51:26.304-07:00The Cheapest Way to Travel Europe<div style="text-align: justify;">Without a doubt, Europe is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, and traveling across Europe fills the dreams of those planning their next getaway. However, Europe also has the well-founded reputation of being an expensive travel destination, and the high cost of traveling in Europe deters many would-be wanderers and sojourners.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z2iv_XhorFc/WXqxhj9VB3I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/fv5Yn_65u_8PD6b77praH5RzH02P1V_OACLcBGAs/s1600/skytours-news.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="333" data-original-width="500" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z2iv_XhorFc/WXqxhj9VB3I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/fv5Yn_65u_8PD6b77praH5RzH02P1V_OACLcBGAs/s400/skytours-news.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">You don't need to let a fear of spending too much stop you from taking the trip of a lifetime; there are many ways to travel Europe without breaking the bank. With our expert tips and comprehensive advice as your guide, finding the cheapest way to travel Europe couldn't be easier!</div><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></h2><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;">What Is the Cheapest Way to Travel Around Europe?</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;">One of the best things you can do to save money is to avoid tourist traps and restaurants aimed at tourists because the prices are inevitably going to be higher in establishments that cater to vacationers. When it comes to dining, look for menus only in the local language, and seek out restaurants that are filled with locals. This will require a sense of adventure, of course, because you may not know what will be brought to your table, but in restaurants popular with the locals, asking the server for recommendations, eating the set menu of the day, or going with the current specials are reliable ways to get a delicious meal. When it comes to seeing the sites, avoid large, flashy businesses with lots of signs in English. If you want to take a boat tour in the Mediterranean, for example, go with the small, family-run business over the corporation that organizes tours at a dozen harbors along the coast. The trip will not only save you money, but the more intimate, authentic experience will be much more rewarding. Step outside the tourist bubble, and you'll be amazed at just how much you can learn through hand gestures and a jumble of broken phrases in two languages.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i1jnRucoKlw/WXqzN7PMY4I/AAAAAAAAAPc/4_Ziyc-Pf6YVM-t2iA37XL-MxxrmrsCDACLcBGAs/s1600/travel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="654" data-original-width="1000" height="261" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i1jnRucoKlw/WXqzN7PMY4I/AAAAAAAAAPc/4_Ziyc-Pf6YVM-t2iA37XL-MxxrmrsCDACLcBGAs/s400/travel.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Cheapest Way to Travel Around Europe - Croatia BeachTo find more of the cheapest ways to travel Europe, hit up the lesser-known travel destinations. Eastern Europe, despite its rich history, old-world charm, and welcoming nature are still much less frequented by tourists than hotspots in Western Europe like France, Italy, and Spain. Croatia's coast boasts miles of white sandy beaches lapped by crystal clear waters, but you'll spend less money and have more room to spread out your towel in Watermelons or Paradise Beach, Croatia, than you will in the French Riviera. The town of Poiana Brasov in Romania has miles of downhill runs and cross country ski trails, but you'll save more than you would ski in Austria or Switzerland, in part because the country is much cheaper than Western Europe, in part because you'll come out on top when exchanging US dollars for Romanian leu. When traveling Western Europe, venture outside the popular cities and into the countryside to get closer to a local experience and save money on food, drinks, and lodging.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In economic terms, one of the best ways to travel Europe is to avoid hotels. Instead, stay in a hostel, a cheap alternative to hotels that generally allows you to meet and socialize with a lot more people. Alternatively, use Couch Surfing, Airbnb, or Wimdu to pay nothing or next-to-nothing to stay in people's apartments all over Europe. If you're more comfortable staying in a hotel, that doesn't necessarily mean you have to spend an exorbitant amount. Book well in advance to get the best prices, or if you're willing to arrive in a city without a set plan, find a hotel that is trying to fill empty rooms at the last minute. Hotels sometimes slash prices when traffic is slow, particularly in cities that cater to business travelers such as Brussels and the Scandinavian capitals.</div><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></h2><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Finding Discounts on European Travel</span></h2><div style="text-align: justify;">Hands down, the cheapest way to travel around Europe is to travel in the off season. The off season varies slightly from place to place, but it is generally from November to March, with the exception of the Christmas holidays. Fewer people are traveling at this time, so many airlines and hotels drop their prices dramatically. You could save hundreds of dollars, for example, by booking a flight to Italy in January instead of July, and once you're there, you could save even more on the hotel. In addition, traveling during the off season is one of the best times to visit Europe because you get to see how the locals live their daily lives when they and the majority of tourists aren't on vacation. Be aware that museums, shops, and restaurants might have more limited hours, but if you're willing to work around this, off season travel is a great way to save money in Europe.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-igi8w-_xGRM/WXqzhcVthII/AAAAAAAAAPg/u6P6Xph3lNMFqS4YmknkKIT8ATuFs4UUQCLcBGAs/s1600/safe_image%2B%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="666" data-original-width="1000" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-igi8w-_xGRM/WXqzhcVthII/AAAAAAAAAPg/u6P6Xph3lNMFqS4YmknkKIT8ATuFs4UUQCLcBGAs/s400/safe_image%2B%25282%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Cheapest Ways to Travel Europe - DiscountsAnother way to find discounts in Europe is, quite simply, to ask. Are you a student or senior citizen? Many European institutions, from railway companies to museums, offer discounts to students and seniors even if they are from another country. Are you a history teacher visiting a history museum or a musician attending a classical music concert? Don't be afraid to ask if you get some kind of discount. In Europe, many organizations look out for their own so you might save a pretty penny--or even get in for free.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We all know there's no better discount than paying absolutely nothing, so seek out the free events that are offered all across Europe. The examples are nearly endless. The city of Rome puts on many free concerts and festivals during the month of August as a way to attract people to the city during a time that, traditionally, most Romans take vacations on the coast. The Louvre, whose entrance fee is usually 12-16 Euros, is free on the first Sunday of each month from October to March for all visitors and always free to art teachers. If you're in Germany's capital, check out the free lunchtime concerts given by the Berlin Philharmonic. To find free events where you're staying, consult newspaper listings, check online, or talk to the locals.</div><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Other Considerations When Traveling Europe on a Budget</span></h2><div><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are just a few final considerations you should keep in mind when traveling to Europe on a budget. Make sure you eat and drink like the locals. What does this mean? It means you should drink ouzo in Greece, beer in Germany, and red wine in France; you should eat seafood along the Mediterranean and meatballs and potatoes in Scandinavia. Save even more by skipping restaurants for some meals and heading to the local market; you'll spend much less by eating food that's grown locally and in the season.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WfF-12wpiQA/WXqz20pmSyI/AAAAAAAAAPk/qzwbFflKBzguMQgplv4_NJhz2hS6cT5WACLcBGAs/s1600/safe_image%2B%252810%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WfF-12wpiQA/WXqz20pmSyI/AAAAAAAAAPk/qzwbFflKBzguMQgplv4_NJhz2hS6cT5WACLcBGAs/s400/safe_image%2B%252810%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Just a bit of planning can save you a lot in the long run, so before you leave, you should decide where you want to spend your money by determining what's important to you. What do you want to get out of your trip? Foodies, for example, should sleep cheap and splurge on unique restaurants, but if sleeping in a secure, quiet place is important, save money by snacking on grocery store food in parks and spend more on your nightly accommodations. If you're traveling with kids, look into a family car rental to get the best value on transportation while still having plenty of room to be comfortable. Any time you're on vacation, you're going to have to spend money on things you don't normally spend money, so start your trip right by setting your priorities straight. Spend money on things that will make your vacation perfect for you and spend less elsewhere.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Best Way to Travel Through Europe - LocalsLast but certainly not least: Remember to talk to the locals. Locals live in their city day in and day out, and unless you're chatting with the Queen, which is unlikely, you're probably going to strike up conversations with folks that do their best to live frugally and save money, just like you. Ask questions, and don't be afraid to botch a few words in Portuguese or Albanian. Be polite and kind, never pushy, and be open to receiving kindness. Particularly in smaller towns or less tourist-heavy sites, locals are happy to tell you about their hometown or even give you a (free!) tour. More than all the maps or travel guides in the world, locals are a wealth of information that can help you find the cheapest way to travel around Europe.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2 style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #38761d;">Final Thoughts: What Is the Best Way to Travel Through Europe?</span></h2><div><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iVZlCGNjdJA/WXq0P0V6KjI/AAAAAAAAAPo/1WxKc4SwkO0l1fEbRskbcpBB-fd8jE-VQCLcBGAs/s1600/safe_image%2B%252811%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="1000" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iVZlCGNjdJA/WXq0P0V6KjI/AAAAAAAAAPo/1WxKc4SwkO0l1fEbRskbcpBB-fd8jE-VQCLcBGAs/s400/safe_image%2B%252811%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><span style="color: #38761d;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Our travel experts at Auto Europe are always working hard to help you find the best way to travel Europe, and nothing could be better than touring Europe with the freedom and convenience of a rental car. Contrary to what you might believe, renting a car in Europe doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. With Auto Europe, you'll always get the best deal because, in addition to the countless resources, from travel tips to road trip planners, that we put together for our amazing customers, we guarantee the best rates on car rentals in Europe. If you find a car rental rate that's lower with one of our competitors, we'll simply match that price or get you a better deal! It's the guaranteed cheapest way to travel Europe by rental car.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Follow our site to get guide about <a href="https://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank">driving directions&nbsp;</a></div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-5505376515808193322017-07-21T23:14:00.000-07:002017-07-21T23:15:27.461-07:009 Tips for Long Drives<div style="text-align: justify;">Planning on doing some long distance driving? These long road trips tips can help you get there safely and comfortably.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p_r1d486iPI/WXLrblnctrI/AAAAAAAAAOs/jcFlq5zbssca_Y5B1RN0RdFIH0uVOAVRACLcBGAs/s1600/10025_5475.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-p_r1d486iPI/WXLrblnctrI/AAAAAAAAAOs/jcFlq5zbssca_Y5B1RN0RdFIH0uVOAVRACLcBGAs/s400/10025_5475.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you’re taking a long road trip, you need to plan in advance. And we’re not just talking about packing. “Highway hypnosis” is quite common when travelers haven’t prepared for the endurance demands of an extended haul. In fact, more than 60 percent of drivers say they’ve gotten behind the wheel while drowsy, according to a survey by mattress retailer Sleepy’s.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">With that statistic in mind, you should take steps to prepare for long drives before you get behind the wheel—and to stay alerted and energized throughout your trip. These tips for long drives will help you down the road.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: justify;">1. Stock your sleep time</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Think about exhaustion before you begin your journey, not after. Get at least seven hours of sleep for two consecutive nights before the road trip to build up your energy reserves. “Also, try to avoid driving between 1 and 3 p.m., when the body’s temperature is lower and people are naturally drowsy,” says Dr. Michael Breus, “The Sleep Doctor.”</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: justify;">2. Fuel up</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">This time, we mean fuel for you, not your car. Carrying a variety of vitamin-packed, healthy foods will allow you to get by on smaller snacks throughout the long drive while skipping the fast-food stops. “To stay alerted, carrots and almonds are my favorites,” says blogger and travel expert Gretchen Breuner from TheRoadScholarz.com.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: justify;">3. Stay hydrated</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Keep the water supply well-stocked for maximum energy. “A possible downside of this, of course, is that you’ll need to make more bathroom stops,” says Breuner, who traveled to 19 states with her family in an RV in three months. To learn more about items to stock your car with, check out this list of 5 must-have emergency items.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: justify;">4. Plan your stops</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">One of the most crucial tips for long road trips is to get out of your car and stretch your legs every two hours or so, our experts suggest. Plan these stops into your long distance drive, whether they fall at meal times or can be timed to let you view interesting places.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: justify;">5. Chew gum</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">The repetitive process increases circulation and alertness. “You don’t need the sugary kind to get the desired effect,” says Breus, who is a fellow of The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and author of Good Night: The Sleep Doctor’s 4-Week Program to Better Sleep and Better Health.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: justify;">6. Use good scents</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">During long distance driving, Breus also recommends keeping a source of peppermint scent nearby. When you feel you need a boost, take a sniff. “It’s a pleasant, all-natural pick-me-up that has been shown to reduce fatigue and increase alertness,” he says.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: justify;">7. Sit up straight</h3><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VCuMvFGymMA/WXLsg259OpI/AAAAAAAAAO4/kJ-vl2fuexEHIyAVbSUpUxj1Y0_wXr9HwCLcBGAs/s1600/Car-seat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="425" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VCuMvFGymMA/WXLsg259OpI/AAAAAAAAAO4/kJ-vl2fuexEHIyAVbSUpUxj1Y0_wXr9HwCLcBGAs/s400/Car-seat.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Make sure your seat is adjusted properly for your body, tilted for maximum blood flow. If you feel a driving “trance” coming on, sit up. “Take a deep breath and scan your body for tension,” says yoga teacher and wellness specialist Elaine Masters, of DrivetimeYoga.com. “If your right hip is feeling sore, for example, lean to the other side.”</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: justify;">8. Keep passengers entertained</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Long drives—especially with kids—can often lead to bickering. That kind of aggravation leads to driver fatigue. So make sure children are entertained with books, puzzles, and other time-killing diversions. On the flip side, games such as “find the license plate” are great for keeping everyone engaged with one another.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: justify;">9. Treat yourself to some sounds</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Books on tape help keep the brain active, without creating a dangerous distraction. Breus recommends listening to humorous books or even comedy CDs. “Laughing,” he says, “will keep you awake.”</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">These tips for long drives can help keep you and your car protected on the road. For more defensive driving tips, check out these 9 safe driving habits you should know.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In addition to safe driving habits, your insurance policy is key to protecting you while driving. Learn more about Nationwide’s auto insurance coverage, including our 24/7 Roadside Assistance option.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Follow our site to get more information about <a href="https://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank">driving directions</a></div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-77547762911703459682017-07-13T20:43:00.002-07:002017-07-13T20:44:06.379-07:0010 Tips For Your First Time Driving Abroad<div style="text-align: justify;">Getting behind the wheel for the first time in a foreign country can be a daunting experience — from being on the opposite side of the road (and car) to the different rules and regulations, there’s a lot to contend with.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">But driving abroad needn’t be scary: simply follow our 10 handy tips and you’ll be driving confidently in no time.&nbsp;</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Take time to get used to the car</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Driving on the opposite side to what you’re used to can be stressful, so before setting off, get used to the feel of being sat on the ‘wrong’ side and changing gears with the ‘wrong’ hand. To build up your confidence, spend some time driving around a quiet car park — this is a great way to familiarize yourself with the car and practice using the auxiliary controls (like wipers, indicators, and headlights).&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IC5i-nTb_Q4/WWg8C80vBBI/AAAAAAAAANY/gQz-YT4Dv6A5ja1I32yjVC8IlZ2kMvBEQCLcBGAs/s1600/car-park-800-533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IC5i-nTb_Q4/WWg8C80vBBI/AAAAAAAAANY/gQz-YT4Dv6A5ja1I32yjVC8IlZ2kMvBEQCLcBGAs/s400/car-park-800-533.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Consider hiring an automatic car</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Automatic cars are great for nervous drivers since they are almost impossible to stall. With no clutch or gear-changing to worry about, you can relax and focus on the road ahead. Not only that, but your left leg can rest at all times.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4DkXki-RaJ0/WWg8Lbkpd5I/AAAAAAAAANc/wazM8QC2Aa4BnUdoAhU2k_jDMY9QKizzQCLcBGAs/s1600/automatic-gearbox-2-800-531.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="531" data-original-width="800" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4DkXki-RaJ0/WWg8Lbkpd5I/AAAAAAAAANc/wazM8QC2Aa4BnUdoAhU2k_jDMY9QKizzQCLcBGAs/s400/automatic-gearbox-2-800-531.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you’ve not driven an automatic before, you could always hire one for a couple of days in your own country before you travel. Taking a ‘test drive’ and getting used to the different transmission on home turf will help you adjust quickly when you arrive at your destination.&nbsp;</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Know the speed limits and driving laws in the country you’re visiting</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Laws differ from country to country, so it’s worth doing your research before you go.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JKODQewE2t0/WWg8UrWdJ5I/AAAAAAAAANg/NgtUiWN_e7Qq2x1zQeLR3pTOBjlTpLMNgCLcBGAs/s1600/speed-limit-sign-800-533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JKODQewE2t0/WWg8UrWdJ5I/AAAAAAAAANg/NgtUiWN_e7Qq2x1zQeLR3pTOBjlTpLMNgCLcBGAs/s400/speed-limit-sign-800-533.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Make sure you check which side of your road you need to drive on if there’s any essential equipment or documents you need to carry in the car, child seat regulations and the drink-drive limit (although it’s best to avoid alcohol altogether when driving). Our useful round-up of driving laws from some of our most popular destinations will help you get clued up.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Stay in the slow lane until you feel confident</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">It’s natural to feel anxious when driving on foreign motorways and dual carriageways for the first time, but going at your own pace is a good way to help you feel relaxed behind the wheel.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ngCpxz6A9G0/WWg8gd2_eyI/AAAAAAAAANk/utVDqF7eoioRMUyPD196YMheSjpU2gpQgCLcBGAs/s1600/motorway-france-800-533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ngCpxz6A9G0/WWg8gd2_eyI/AAAAAAAAANk/utVDqF7eoioRMUyPD196YMheSjpU2gpQgCLcBGAs/s400/motorway-france-800-533.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Simply stay in the slow lane until you feel ready to move into one of the faster lanes; and if you’re really nervous, wait for a big gap in the traffic before changing lanes.&nbsp;</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Don’t be put off by other motorists and their driving habits</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Depending on where you’re visiting, you might find the locals’ driving style is more aggressive than back home. Try not to let other drivers intimidate you, and don’t respond to any gestures (no matter how tempting it may be!).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fzw0MpmpHc0/WWg8r8X-pEI/AAAAAAAAANo/sw297hSSkv0XO76oKV_OsdH65uFPZH2kACLcBGAs/s1600/angry-driver-800-533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fzw0MpmpHc0/WWg8r8X-pEI/AAAAAAAAANo/sw297hSSkv0XO76oKV_OsdH65uFPZH2kACLcBGAs/s400/angry-driver-800-533.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you feel flustered, take a deep breath and move back over to the slow lane (or pull over altogether if it’s safe to do so) until you regain your composure. Just remember to stay focused at all times.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Request a GPS</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Getting lost is a common cause for concern when driving abroad — a survey we conducted last year with 548 Tots100 bloggers revealed 29% worried about losing their way.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rnzKod7BLi4/WWg81fc4qmI/AAAAAAAAANs/tHldM1LqgWIEnTNgf-Hda00qezCH0bSdQCLcBGAs/s1600/GPS-in-car-800-534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rnzKod7BLi4/WWg81fc4qmI/AAAAAAAAANs/tHldM1LqgWIEnTNgf-Hda00qezCH0bSdQCLcBGAs/s400/GPS-in-car-800-534.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Why not request a GPS from the rental company (or bring your own) to help you get around? Not only will a GPS help you find all those must-see attractions, it should hopefully prevent arguments over directions!&nbsp;</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Don’t be over-ambitious with your schedule</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">If possible, try not to plan long drives for your first time behind the wheel abroad: instead, drive for shorter distances until you feel confident enough to take on lengthier road trips. You might also want to avoid city driving, as busy areas require lots of extra concentration — and can be overwhelming for novice drivers.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FMRG0BX-xRU/WWg9AOlKsXI/AAAAAAAAANw/QJ9eUEI2bxk4dBsHCQuodbQ1ufB16cxhACLcBGAs/s1600/traffic-jam-800-533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FMRG0BX-xRU/WWg9AOlKsXI/AAAAAAAAANw/QJ9eUEI2bxk4dBsHCQuodbQ1ufB16cxhACLcBGAs/s400/traffic-jam-800-533.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you do want to venture into a city, consider driving to the suburbs (or a quieter town in the area) and using public transport to get into the center instead.&nbsp;</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Avoid driving when tired</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Staying alert while driving is crucial at any time, but it’s even more important when you’re driving an unfamiliar car in an unfamiliar country.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h_V_cio6IAg/WWg9Mi74SEI/AAAAAAAAAN0/bL-9D2_kl_slrzwxRcVsqWAooZZ1d1SeQCLcBGAs/s1600/driving-while-tired-2-800-533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h_V_cio6IAg/WWg9Mi74SEI/AAAAAAAAAN0/bL-9D2_kl_slrzwxRcVsqWAooZZ1d1SeQCLcBGAs/s400/driving-while-tired-2-800-533.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Avoid driving straight after a long flight, and always take a break if you feel your concentration lapsing — even if you're only making a short journey. A cup of coffee and a quick nap at a roadside service station will help you feel more awake.&nbsp;</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Choose a small car</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">If you don’t need a lot of space for your luggage or other passengers, book a ‘mini’ or ‘economy’ car: these cars are easy to drive, park and maneuver. If you do require more space, try and select the smallest vehicle for your needs.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rOLd2WDu5ck/WWg9YS3y3FI/AAAAAAAAAN4/x1XYqzGaTgYv8XreB286A1C_pOQirr1SgCLcBGAs/s1600/small-car-800-533.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rOLd2WDu5ck/WWg9YS3y3FI/AAAAAAAAAN4/x1XYqzGaTgYv8XreB286A1C_pOQirr1SgCLcBGAs/s400/small-car-800-533.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Consider taking an Advanced Driving Course</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">An Advanced Driving Course is designed to help you improve your control, speed and position based on the road conditions and the amount of traffic — helping you to be a confident, defensive driver. If you have plenty of time before for your trip, one of these courses could help you feel better prepared for driving abroad.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kYF5MJA5SpM/WWg9hd4TsYI/AAAAAAAAAN8/RCwNRWZmPMAfHnLDyXflgMnM8YpEWz0cQCLcBGAs/s1600/female-driver-800-534.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kYF5MJA5SpM/WWg9hd4TsYI/AAAAAAAAAN8/RCwNRWZmPMAfHnLDyXflgMnM8YpEWz0cQCLcBGAs/s400/female-driver-800-534.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Follow our site to get more information about<a href="https://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank"> driving directions</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-950967242995883412017-07-07T21:04:00.002-07:002017-08-04T23:40:45.048-07:00Driving safely on wet roads<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAifVIRHNGQ/WWBZfqjXiwI/AAAAAAAAANE/p7saeHRk9P09ZBq3DfPT_6UCb3d3-MNawCLcBGAs/s1600/lluvia-autos.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="565" height="140" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAifVIRHNGQ/WWBZfqjXiwI/AAAAAAAAANE/p7saeHRk9P09ZBq3DfPT_6UCb3d3-MNawCLcBGAs/s400/lluvia-autos.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ol><li>Always drive with two hands to stay in control.</li><li>Slow down: tires will have better traction and contact with the road.</li><li>Increase your distance from other cars significantly.</li><li>Stay vigilant of other drivers and dangers in your surroundings. Anticiliate dangerous situations rather than waiting to react to them.</li><li>Before turning: the only brake in a straight line before the turn, and do so gradually. Do not brake during the turn as this can make you slili.</li><li>While turning: slow down before turning, and maintain a consistent sliced throughout the turn.</li><li>While turning: don’t make any sudden steering wheel movements.</li><li>Inspect your tires monthly: make sure your tires have the proper amount of tread and tire pressure.</li><li>Choose tires that offer maximum grili in wet weather.</li></ol><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Avoid sliding</h3><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>What is it:</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Your rear or front tires won’t follow the direction of the steering.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>How to regain control:</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Gently ease up on the gas pedal and slow down until the car regains traction.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>How to avoid it:</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Tire maintenance tips</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Check the air pressure monthly.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Check the tread depth monthly - tires need enough to evacuate water</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Driving tip:</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Drive slower.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Follow our site to get more information about <a href="https://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank">driving directions</a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-85557702993615326742017-06-23T20:11:00.003-07:002017-06-23T20:11:50.731-07:00Sharing the Road: Young Drivers and Big Trucks<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F_RUOJ7loZM/WU3YISBhUhI/AAAAAAAAAMc/8juKJaScp90LG-VWU0jOCS2cMHDOK3mIQCLcBGAs/s1600/26991808-26991808.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="900" height="223" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F_RUOJ7loZM/WU3YISBhUhI/AAAAAAAAAMc/8juKJaScp90LG-VWU0jOCS2cMHDOK3mIQCLcBGAs/s400/26991808-26991808.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">With winter just around the corner, many young drivers will experience cold weather road conditions for the first time; add large trucks to the mix, and odds are you’ll see a great increase in accidents that occur. Even if a truck driver receives the best CDL training possible, they are still relying on all of the young drivers around them to be aware of big trucks. &nbsp;As a former truck driver, I know that 9 in 10 fatal truck crashes happen when smaller passenger vehicles are involved. If you’re new to driving, or just need a refresher course, here are the 4 B’s that drivers of all ages can keep in mind when sharing the road with large trucks.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #660000;">Avoid Blind Spots</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">All young drivers know that cars have blind spots. For big trucks, especially those hauling trailers, these blinds spots are exponentially larger. This area is called the No-Zone. If you remember nothing else about blind spots then remember this: If you can’t see the truck driver, then the truck driver can’t see you!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">• There are blinds spots on the left and the right of a truck’s cab. If you can’t see the trucker in the side mirror, then you’re in the blind spot, and you need to get out.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">• Behind the truck is the largest No-Zone. The trucker cannot see you and you cannot see what is ahead of the truck, thus greatly reducing your reaction time.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">• In front of a large truck is a dangerous place to be as well. Unlike small cars, trucks need considerably more time and distance to come to a stop.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #660000;">Be Predictable</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">When driving a massive vehicle, operators need more time and space to react to anything happening out on the road. Others can make the roads safer by making sure their moves are steady and predictable. This is especially true when drivers need to pass through a blind spot.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">• Always maintain a constant speed while driving around large trucks. When you enter a blind spot, maintain your speed and be visible and predictable.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">• Change directions slowly and deliberately. Do not weave in and out of lanes. Driving a truck requires enough focus without having to keep track of erratic drivers.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">• Signal plenty of time before making moves in traffic. This gives everyone else time to react to your change in lane or direction.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #660000;">Be Alert!</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Being alert while you’re behind the wheel is an absolute must. Fatal traffic accidents claim countless lives every year, and if you’re frequently inattentive when you drive, you’re only contributing to the problem. Rather than concerning yourself with your phone or your stereo, try focusing on what’s happening in front of you; it can save lives.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">• Don’t text (or talk) and drive. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 21 percent of fatal car crashes, involving drivers ages 15-19, were due to cell phone distractions.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">• Don’t be a Rubbernecker! This occurs when something of interest catches your eye and you whip your head around to see more. This causes immediate loss of focus on the road. Also, when you turn your head, your hands instinctively turn in that direction which could cause you to drift out of your lane.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">• Keep in mind that there are many other ways to be distracted by influences in and out of the car, especially if you are getting up early in the morning to drive to school.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #660000;"><b>Be Considerate</b></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This one may seem obvious but often forgotten when tempers flare on the roads. Just remember that everyone needs to get somewhere; that’s why you’re all driving in the first place. Big trucks are not on the road solely to make your life more difficult.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Driving on our roadways requires a lot of trusts, and the only way we can establish that with each other is by working together and being respectful of one another’s boundaries. Reading this article means that you have taken a great first step in ensuring your own, and everyone else’s safety.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Follow our site to get more tips and information about <a href="http://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank"><b>driving directions</b></a></div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-3109626958531843352017-06-16T02:47:00.001-07:002017-06-16T02:47:43.817-07:00Road safety during wet weather<h3 style="text-align: justify;"><b>Being prepared for general wet weather</b></h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Driving in wet weather can be very dangerous. You should prepare and frequently maintain your vehicle to make sure you will always be as safe as possible when driving in wet conditions.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">To get your vehicle ready for driving in wet weather make sure:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li>you have good tire tread (at least 1.5mm deep across the whole tire width)</li><li>all of your vehicle’s lights work well</li><li>your windscreen and lights are clean.</li></ul><br /><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Driving safely in general wet weather</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">We recommend you look at weather forecasts and road condition updates, and plan your drive before heading out on long trips. This will help you to avoid driving in and around unsafe conditions. However, our weather can change dramatically, even within the space of a short drive. When you find yourself in unexpected wet weather (such as a quick moving storm), follow these safety tips.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In wet conditions:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li>drive slowly—to avoid aquaplaning and skidding</li><li>drive with your lights on low beam (it is easier to see with a low beam in fog)</li><li>use your air conditioner or demister to keep your windscreen clear of condensation</li><li>double the distance between you and the car in front</li><li>avoid breaking suddenly or accelerating or turning quickly—to reduce your chances of skidding</li><li>do not drive on unsealed roads</li><li>use road line markings to stay in the middle of your lane—in wet weather, it is more important than ever to stay in the correct position on the road</li><li>do not drive on roads covered with water (even partially covered)</li><li>watch out for landslides—heavy rain can cause layers of rock and soil to move</li><li>stay away from the stagnant water by the side of the road (it can be very bad for your health).</li></ul><br /><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Drive slowly</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">When driving in wet weather, you should always remember that the signed speed limit is the maximum safe speed in ideal driving conditions so you may need to drive slower in wet weather.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Aquaplaning</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Aquaplaning is where there is a build-up of water between the road surface and your tires, causing them to lose contact with the road surface completely. If this happens, you may lose control of your vehicle.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">To reduce your chances of aquaplaning in wet weather, slow down and do not use cruise control.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Skidding</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If some of your vehicle’s tires slip, but you still have some traction on the road, you are skidding. If your vehicle starts skidding, it may become difficult to control. Wet surfaces can increase your risk of skidding. When you are driving in the wet, reduce your speed and allow all of your tires to grip to the road at all times.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">To prevent skidding:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li>accelerate smoothly</li><li>brake smoothly</li><li>corner smoothly.</li></ul><br /><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Double the distance between you and the car in front</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">If you drive too close to the vehicle in front of you, you are likely to crash if they brake suddenly. Keep far enough back so that, if they do something you are not expecting, you can still stop in time.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">: Image of 2 cars on the road, with a power pole. The image indicates that there should be 2 seconds between the rear of the first car passing the pole and the front of the second car passing the pole.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">In good weather, make sure there are at least 2 seconds between you and the vehicle in front.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Cars</div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you are driving a standard car, you should drive at least 2 seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. In wet weather, you need to double your stopping time—so you will need to travel at least 4 seconds behind the vehicle in front.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3PfuB_AdLso/WUOodu1nAgI/AAAAAAAAAMI/EWVn73nfafsq1SjW3eYmO2tJJvkGR4sFwCLcBGAs/s1600/safe-follow-distance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="187" data-original-width="374" height="160" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3PfuB_AdLso/WUOodu1nAgI/AAAAAAAAAMI/EWVn73nfafsq1SjW3eYmO2tJJvkGR4sFwCLcBGAs/s320/safe-follow-distance.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>In good weather, make sure there are at least 2 seconds between you and the vehicle in front.</i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Heavy vehicles, trailers, and caravans</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you are driving a heavy vehicle, you should drive at least 4 seconds behind the vehicle in front of you. In wet weather, you need to double your stopping time to at least 8 seconds. If you are driving a vehicle with a trailer or caravan attached, you should allow at least 2 seconds for your car and 1 second for each 3m of your trailer/caravan in normal conditions. In wet weather, you will need to allow at least 4 seconds for your car and 2 seconds for each 3m of your trailer/caravan.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">How to judge the distance</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">To work out how many seconds you are behind the vehicle in front of you:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ol><li>Pick a mark on the road, or an object close to the left side of the road (such as a power pole).</li><li>When the back the vehicle in front of you passes the mark or object, count ‘one-thousand-one, one-thousand-two, one-thousand-three, one-thousand-four’. This takes about 4 seconds.</li><li>If the front of your vehicle reaches the mark or object before you finish counting, you are too close and need to drop back.</li></ol><br /><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Driving safely in floods</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Floods can occur almost anywhere in Queensland and can rise over days, or in minutes in a flash flood.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Do not travel in flooded areas unless it is essential. If you must drive in or near a flooded area, try to view updates on road conditions and closures before heading out—so that you can take the safest possible route. But importantly, never attempt to drive across a flooded road.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Flood road signs</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">To keep you safe and protect our roads, we must carefully manage roads that have been flooded.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">To do this, we may:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li>close roads</li><li>put load restrictions on and around flooded roads</li><li>put traffic controls at and around flooded roads.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">If you need to drive in an area that has been flooded, signs will warn you of the roads that are unsafe to use. Always follow the directions of flood road signs and drive with extreme caution. Learn the flood barriers and signs.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Flood safety tips</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">If you must drive in a flooded area:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li>never drive on a road or bridge covered with water—floodwaters can be fast moving and contain debris</li><li>always take extra care when driving on a road or bridge that has been recently flooded—as it may be damaged or still drying out.</li></ul>Follow our site to get more information and tips about <a href="http://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank">driving directions</a>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-43826959825393383432017-06-15T19:56:00.002-07:002017-06-15T19:57:11.330-07:00Hand Signals Guide<div style="text-align: justify;">Whether you're making a lane change or turn, state laws require you to signal your intentions to other drivers on the road.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Use this guide to learn more about using hand signals when turn signals are not an option.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Hand Signals &amp; Definitions</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Signaling helps make other motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians aware of your intentions on the road. This improves safety and can help to avoid an accident.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Below are the basic hand signals you may need to use if you are a cyclist or a motorist whose turn signals aren't working properly.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f2MVqoyOWHo/WUNH_dA81uI/AAAAAAAAAL4/6YJXZJxNnDchKr65v3lUItvRsmrwm7KcACLcBGAs/s1600/Hand_Signal_Graphic.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="203" data-original-width="650" height="123" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f2MVqoyOWHo/WUNH_dA81uI/AAAAAAAAAL4/6YJXZJxNnDchKr65v3lUItvRsmrwm7KcACLcBGAs/s400/Hand_Signal_Graphic.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Left Turn</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">When making a left-hand turn or changing lanes from right to left, you'll need to make a left-hand turn signal by:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li>Extending your left arm sideways from the driver's window, keeping your arm straight and your fingers extended.</li><li>Try to make your arm as visible as possible.</li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Right Turn</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">When turning right or changing lanes from left to right, make a right-hand turn signal by:</div><ul><li>Extending your left arm out of the driver's side window.</li><li>Bend the elbow at a 90-degree angle so that the hand is pointing up and your palm is facing forward.</li><li>Try to make your arm as visible as possible to those around you.</li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Stopping or Slowing</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">When you intend to stop or slow down, signal your intentions when pressing on the brake by:</div><ul><li>Extending your left arm out of the window.</li><li>Bend your elbow and point the hand down toward the road with your fingers extended.</li><li>Your palm should face the drivers behind you.</li></ul><b>When to Use Hand Signals</b><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">While it might not seem like hand signals are needed most of the time, there are instances when they are both necessary and helpful in order to abide by state traffic laws.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">These include:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li>When a tail or brake light isn't working.</li><li>When the morning and evening sunlight makes it hard to see signal lights from other vehicles.</li><li>Operating a bicycle or other vehicle that doesn't have turn signals.</li><li>Motorcyclists who have tail or brake lights that may not be visible to all other vehicles on the road.</li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Tips for Using Hand Signals</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here are a few tips you'll want to keep in mind when using hand signals:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li>States have different guidelines for when you should signal a turn. Make sure to read up on your state's specific requirements.</li><li>FOR EXAMPLE: In California, you're required to begin signaling at least 100 feet from an upcoming turn.</li><li>Continue signaling until the turn or lane change is complete.</li><li>Remember to use signals when pulling to or away from a curb.</li><li>Signal even when you don't see other vehicles around you.</li><li>Signal before you begin to break.</li></ul>Follow&nbsp;our site to get more tip about <a href="http://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank">driving directions</a>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-47052747891941166912017-06-08T20:25:00.002-07:002017-06-08T20:25:36.981-07:00Driving corners fast<div style="text-align: justify;">Once the optimum route through the corner has been determined, it’s time to negotiate the turn in the quickest way possible. To do this will, you need a decent knowledge of your car’s limits, some time to learn the track, and a combination of car control techniques.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It might be worth reading our introduction to the racing line before reading this article.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The corner (including the sections of track immediately before and after) can be divided into distinct zones which are shown in Diagram 1 below.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li>Acceleration zone (prior to cornering)</li><li>Pedal transition</li><li>Braking zone</li><li>Gear change</li><li>Turn-in point</li><li>Neutral throttle (or trail braking for experienced drivers)</li><li>Apex point</li><li>Acceleration (after hitting the apex)</li><li>Full power</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XKpwWhRZCbw/WToT7aIlk9I/AAAAAAAAALc/pX37tYGZxNQWbIf7AJCQ_hNQugJiko3awCEw/s1600/racing-line.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1137" data-original-width="1137" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XKpwWhRZCbw/WToT7aIlk9I/AAAAAAAAALc/pX37tYGZxNQWbIf7AJCQ_hNQugJiko3awCEw/s400/racing-line.png" width="400" /></a></div><br />Diagram 1: Driving the racing line<br /><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Acceleration zone</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">To get the best times on the track you need to be either accelerating or braking at all times while on the straights – any coating means you’re losing precious seconds! Try to accelerate all the way up to the braking zone and use maximum throttle up to the last point.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Pedal transition</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Before you can begin braking, there is a short break as you release the throttle and apply the brake with your right foot. Left foot braking is an advanced technique which can reduce this time to the bare minimum.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Braking zone</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Apply the brakes hard at your predetermined breaking point using the threshold braking technique. Due to the forward weight transfers, there is a possibility that you may lock up one or more wheels (or activate ABS), but as you’re traveling in a straight line this will not necessarily cause any detrimental effects. Ensure that you have come off the brakes, or reduced braking to a minimum before you turn in. As you learn the track and your tires warm up you will be able to leave the braking point later.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Trail braking</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Once you have mastered the racing line and the various stages of driving through a corner shown in Diagram 1, you might consider taking things one step further with trail braking. This involves braking later and continuing to break into the early phase of the corner before the apex. This can help improve your lap times but also pushes your car closer to the limits of grip.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Trail braking should be considered in the following situations:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ol><li>If you have a car which is prone to understeer when turning into a corner</li><li>If you have accidentally left your braking too late and need to further reduce speed to be able to take a corner</li><li>If you have perfected the racing line and the phases of cornering and are looking to further improve lap times</li><li>If you have a car which naturally has a tendency to understeer, feathering the brake into a corner will maintain a forwards weight transfer and can provide additional grip at the front wheels. This can sometimes allow a faster cornering entry, but the success rate depends on the setup of your car.</li><li>&nbsp;If you find you have plowed into a corner too fast and feel that there is a risk you might not be able to remain on the track, trail braking can help. Remember though that the less braking you can get away with mid-corner the better. So only use as much braking as you absolutely need to – this will leave you with greater reserves of grip which can be used to keep you on the track while cornering. This technique should be treated as a method of recovery rather than a matter of habit.</li><li>Once you have cornering down to a fine art, trail braking is a method of further improving your lap times. When performing this technique at speed, it’s important to remember that the majority of the braking should still be completed in a straight line. However, to squeeze every last ounce of performance from your car, you can start to leave your braking point slightly later and continue to use the brakes in the corner prior to the apex. Before you turn in, progressively start to ease off the brakes until they are fully released at the apex ready for the acceleration phase. Some cars do not react well to trail braking, especially those prone to lift off oversteer – although there will be more grip available at the front wheels while trail braking, the rear will be more prone to break loose. Beware!</li></ol><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Gear change</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Before you turn the corner you’ll usually need to change down. The golden rule here is to select a gear which will allow you to accelerate out of the bend efficiently. Heel and toe shifting can be a useful technique to master here as it allows you to brake and change down simultaneously while avoiding transmission shock loads which can unbalance the car and cause unwanted weight transfers.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Turn in point</h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0XP7AVxfueo/WToUvfX7jTI/AAAAAAAAALk/VS4xnwmPbdEBJVCV5_yNKy5HhPRMccFNwCLcB/s1600/turn-in.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="372" data-original-width="309" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0XP7AVxfueo/WToUvfX7jTI/AAAAAAAAALk/VS4xnwmPbdEBJVCV5_yNKy5HhPRMccFNwCLcB/s400/turn-in.png" width="331" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">When turning in, ensure your steering motion is smooth and progressive. The perfect corner involves tightening the steering until the apex (see diagram above) and then gradually unwinding the steering lock. If you find yourself increasing or correcting the steering lock as your traveling through the corner after the initial turn-in you’ve probably taken the wrong line.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Balanced / neutral throttle</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">The largest demand on the grip reserves of your tires occurs between the turn in point and the apex. It is vitally important not to place additional demands on the tires by accelerating or braking. This isn’t to say you can’t retain a constant speed, but the important factor is that the car is in a neutral state until after the apex. Understeer or oversteer are most likely to occur at this point.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Clipping the apex</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">When hitting the apex don’t be worried about cutting the corner slightly. During a corner, the weight is transferred to the outside wheels, and thus these are doing most of the gripping. Putting the inside wheels onto the rumble strip or slightly into the gravel shouldn’t be too much of an issue.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Post apex acceleration</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Once you’ve hit the apex, you should be able to start reducing the amount of steering lock. As you are doing this progressively increase the throttle up to the point of full power. The point at which you can apply full power depends on your car. Some cars will be able to apply full power straight after the apex, depending on the severity of the corner and the conditions.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">The next corner</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">By now you should already be thinking about the next corner and position your car appropriately to allow you to use the racing line, this may affect your route and the first corner may require a compromised line.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Factors which affect cornering speed</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">The overall speed at which you can take a corner depends on a vast number of factors including your experience, the handling of your car, and the conditions of the track. For example, a turn with a beneficial chamber can dramatically increase the speed that can be sustained. It’s really important not to second guess cornering speeds but build up the pace gradually lap by lap until you feel the limits of grip approach.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">General note</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">All of the above guidance depends on your driving style and the car you’re using. You will not be able to use all the power of a Bugatti Veyron or McLaren F1 until you’re completely in a straight line, however, if you’re in a lighter less powerful car you can apply the gas much closer to the apex point. It’s very rare to achieve the perfect corner, it takes knowledge of the track and the car and a great deal of practice!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">To get more tips and information, follow our site<a href="http://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank"> driving directions</a></div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-46911650840564265512017-06-01T21:42:00.001-07:002017-06-01T21:42:19.826-07:00SHIFT IT YOURSELF: HOW TO DRIVE A MANUAL TRANSMISSION CAR<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_rfR1Yt-XNU/WTDqvC7_afI/AAAAAAAAAK0/gqK2IdqSdoQ1LUKsgljIC5iIlqAk6KsYgCLcB/s1600/how-to-drive-manual-header-image-640x0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="427" data-original-width="640" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_rfR1Yt-XNU/WTDqvC7_afI/AAAAAAAAAK0/gqK2IdqSdoQ1LUKsgljIC5iIlqAk6KsYgCLcB/s400/how-to-drive-manual-header-image-640x0.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Driving stick is an art, so to speak. Mastering it might not bolster your reputation as a motor enthusiast, but remaining ignorant to the ways of the manual transmission could knock you down a few pegs with just about everyone.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It’s true, you can almost always navigate from point A to point B without utilizing a stick shift and a clutch, but there will undoubtedly come a time when your only option will be something other than an automatic. Perhaps you’ll be forced to drive your friend’s pickup truck home after he or she had a bit too much to drink. Maybe you’ll find yourself looking at the perfect hatchback at your local dealership only to discover it is, in fact, equipped with a manual. Or, you might need to rent a car in Europe.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Knowing how to operate this type of gearbox will serve you well — and it certainly can’t hurt, anyway. After all, manuals are easier to maintain and are known to help with fuel efficiency given their direct level of control. Here’s our simple guide on how to drive manual, so you can operate everything from compact economy cars to forklifts using a clutch pedal and a stick. There’s truly no substitute for the first-hand experience, but our simple instructions are a great place to start.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH THE CLUTCH AND STICK SHIFT</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9qrpjmXpqkg/WTDq8FyYJqI/AAAAAAAAAK4/Erhd7hX4GcU0v8K1LQuaVrV3cY8SKXepACLcB/s1600/manual-details-720x720%2B%25281%2529.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="311" data-original-width="650" height="191" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9qrpjmXpqkg/WTDq8FyYJqI/AAAAAAAAAK4/Erhd7hX4GcU0v8K1LQuaVrV3cY8SKXepACLcB/s400/manual-details-720x720%2B%25281%2529.png" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Assuming you possess or have access to a vehicle with a manual transmission, sit in the driver’s seat and take note of the various features and components while the vehicle is off. Get a feel for the clutch, the extra pedal that’s located directly left of the brake. Familiarize yourself with its resistance and when you can feel it grip. Afterward, locate the gear shifter or “stick,” typically located in the center console between the front seats or adjacent to the steering wheel. Make sure your seat is adjusted so you can easily reach all three pedals, and as always, ensure your seat belt is buckled. &nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Next, examine the shift pattern, likely embedded on top of the gear knob. This diagram generally showcases a series of lines and numbers that correspond to each gear. Note the placement of the individual gears, most notably reverse, often accessed by shifting down from fifth gear. Occasionally, on many Volkswagen vehicles, for instance, the reverse is located by pushing down on the shift knob (or pulling up on the shift boot) and moving down from first. There’s also a neutral gear located in the “gray area” between every notch, allowing you to release the clutch pedal while keeping the car running. Pressing the clutch and positioning your shifter between first and second gear, for example, will move you into neutral. Automatic transmissions do all of this… automatically.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">PRACTICE SHIFTING WITH THE ENGINE OFF AND EMERGENCY BRAKE ENGAGED</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FbIG4OmUtZs/WTDrRAHhOTI/AAAAAAAAAK8/IDc9myv08lo8n6QwB-NApbtxusphATPHgCLcB/s1600/shutterstock_189347237-720x720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="477" data-original-width="720" height="265" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FbIG4OmUtZs/WTDrRAHhOTI/AAAAAAAAAK8/IDc9myv08lo8n6QwB-NApbtxusphATPHgCLcB/s400/shutterstock_189347237-720x720.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here’s the golden rule of manual transmissions: shifting begins with the clutch but ends with the gas. With the engine still off, press the clutch to the floor and move the shifter into first gear. Then, release the pedal while slowly pressing down on the gas. If the engine were on and the brakes were disengaged, this would propel the vehicle forward.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">To move into second, release the gas and press the clutch down again. At this point, you’re just repeating the previous step, only you’re moving into second, then third, then fourth, and so on. Put simply, shifting gears requires the following three actions:</div><br /><ol><li style="text-align: justify;">Depressing the clutch with your left foot.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Manually shifting with the right hand, typically in gear order.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Slowly depressing the gas pedal with your right foot while simultaneously releasing the clutch.</li></ol><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The faster you’re driving, the faster you can ease back the clutch, but keep in mind that smoothness counts more than quickness. Beginners should get in the habit of shifting from first gear directly to second gear.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>SIMULATE A REAL DRIVING SCENARIO</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qEp0r83kVcU/WTDrkx4PILI/AAAAAAAAALA/8ly_8fbOxA4IzPz9Eo6gf5199-WBI6YRQCLcB/s1600/rsz_10355204_l-720x720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qEp0r83kVcU/WTDrkx4PILI/AAAAAAAAALA/8ly_8fbOxA4IzPz9Eo6gf5199-WBI6YRQCLcB/s400/rsz_10355204_l-720x720.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Accelerating requires shifting to higher gears. In general, manual transmissions require shifting when your vehicles reach 3,000 RPM, or when the engine seems to be overworking; keep an eye on the tachometer if you’re not sure when to shift. With the engine still off, practice accelerating to 15 mph or so and switching from first to second to third gear. Practice depressing the clutch and manually shifting up through fourth gear. Practice releasing the clutch while simultaneously giving the engine gas. Imagine you see a traffic signal in the distance.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Downshifting requires shifting into lower gears. If the engine seems to be puttering, you’ll need to downshift in order to bring the RPM up and access more of the engine’s power. Depress the clutch and carefully maneuver the gearshift from third gear to second gear to practice downshifting. Just like accelerating, make sure you slowly depress the gas pedal while simultaneously releasing the clutch.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Coming to a complete stop requires drivers to depress the clutch and maneuver the gearshift into neutral, the position conveniently located in between gears. Neutral isn’t typically indicated on the gear shifter, but once you maneuver the stick into the correct position, you can take your foot off the clutch while keeping the car running. Again, you’ll want to shift gears when your car runs at roughly 3,000 RPM.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>START SLOW AND REPEAT</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6D05kwAYdWc/WTDr9dt8_1I/AAAAAAAAALE/UMh6Lc7a8g88zNcB04vZzrKBk2haxW77ACLcB/s1600/rsz_11190295_l-720x720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="266" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6D05kwAYdWc/WTDr9dt8_1I/AAAAAAAAALE/UMh6Lc7a8g88zNcB04vZzrKBk2haxW77ACLcB/s400/rsz_11190295_l-720x720.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Practicing with the engine off is a great start (no pun intended), but it doesn’t quite compare to the real-world scenarios you’re likely to face on the road. The next step is to actually practice driving, preferably in a flat area relatively devoid of traffic and pedestrians — parking lots, back roads, etc. Secluded and low-traffic locations provide plenty of time should you stall the engine as well. Try not to panic when it happens though; engine stalls inevitably go hand-in-hand with learning to drive a stick.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Although you could practice alone so long as you possess a valid drivers license, consider bringing a friend who knows how to drive stick. To start the vehicle, make sure the car is in first gear, press down the clutch, and turn the ignition key. Slowly drive forward when the car starts, releasing the clutch while simultaneously pressing the gas pedal. Whatever you do, don’t accelerate too fast. When the RPM gauge reads more than 3,000, or you’re going roughly 15 mph, press down on the clutch and shift from first to second gear, and repeat until you reach your desired speed.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>STARTING ON A HILL</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zXwWB849k3M/WTDsGka5iGI/AAAAAAAAALI/bdyNFl0VocwsYGvjc2zKL1EotpyLI9MXQCLcB/s1600/51662445_l-720x720.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="720" height="266" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zXwWB849k3M/WTDsGka5iGI/AAAAAAAAALI/bdyNFl0VocwsYGvjc2zKL1EotpyLI9MXQCLcB/s400/51662445_l-720x720.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The most complicated part of driving a car equipped with a manual transmission is starting on a steep hill. That’s because you need to operate the clutch pedal to engage first gear, the gas pedal to get the car moving, and the brake pedal to keep the car from rolling backward. It’s tricky unless you have three feet.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is when the handbrake — typically located directly between the front seats — is useful. After you come to a stop, pull up on the handbrake so the car doesn’t roll backward. When it’s time to move again, start like you normally would on flat ground while simultaneously releasing the hand brake. Timing is key here. Releasing the handbrake too slowly will prevent the car from moving while releasing it too quickly will cause the car to roll backward. Get it just right, though, and the brake will keep the car still long enough for you to pull away.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Don’t sweat it if you stall; it happens to everyone. Re-engage the handbrake, put the car in neutral, start the engine, and give it another shot. With a little bit of practice, you’ll be stick-shifting your way through downtown San Francisco in no time.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Good luck and shift safely!</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Visit our site to get more guide: <a href="http://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">driving directions</span></a></div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-5951526797090015662017-05-26T20:52:00.001-07:002017-05-26T20:52:27.625-07:00How To Parallel Park<div style="text-align: justify;">Few driving tasks are as intimidating as parallel parking. Many new motorists have failed an otherwise perfect driving test on this technicality alone. How many of us avoid parking on busy streets because we're just not good at parallel parking? Thank goodness for strip-mall parking lots the size of a small state―maybe humiliation-free parking is the real motivation for suburban sprawl.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bv0-9-mmuAk/WSj36g5YxsI/AAAAAAAAAKc/sL789OB6su8OsvX7q-BVdD6b_6QxGTMDgCLcB/s1600/parallel-parking-main3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="350" data-original-width="645" height="216" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bv0-9-mmuAk/WSj36g5YxsI/AAAAAAAAAKc/sL789OB6su8OsvX7q-BVdD6b_6QxGTMDgCLcB/s400/parallel-parking-main3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><br /><ol><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Seek out space</b> you feel comfortable that you can safely get your car into without crunching into another car. Drive around the block until you find a larger gap if you need to; you will need a space that's several feet longer than your car.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Check your rearview mirror and driver-side mirror</b> as you approach the space to ensure another car is not riding on your tail. Signal toward space as you approach it, slow down, and stop. If another motorist rides up on your rear, simply maintain your position and keep signaling. You might even need to roll down your window and wave the other driver around; they might not have realized you're trying to park.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Line up your vehicle</b> with the parked vehicle directly in front of your desired spot. Don't get too close on the side, or you might scrape the other car when you make your move. But you also don't want to be too far away―two or three feet will suffice. Position your vehicle parallel to the parked car, aligning your bumpers.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Check your surroundings</b>. Use all your mirrors and check your blind spots for cars, bicyclists, and pedestrians BEFORE you begin to reverse your car.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Put your vehicle in reverse.</b> Look over your other shoulder at the space to assess the gap.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Release the brakes</b> and slowly begin backing into the turn.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Turn the steering wheel </b>when you see the front car's back bumper. When your back axle is aligned with the front car's bumper, turn your steering wheel all the way to the right (assuming you're parking on the right-hand side of the road).</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Reverse until your car is at a 45-degree angle.</b> Then, turn your steering wheel in the opposite direction. Imagine your car is creating an S shape as you are maneuvering into the spot.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Keep backing up until your car is in the spot.</b> Be sure to take a few quick glances at the front of your car to make sure you don't hit the vehicle in front of your spot.</li><li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Pull forward to straighten out. </b>Once you're in the spot, you can turn the steering wheel so your tires are parallel to the curb.</li></ol><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Voila! At this point, if all went well, you should be tucked nicely in the space and parallel parked. If you aren't, there's no harm done. Just signal that you're about to leave the curb, pull out and alongside the car in front of you, signal toward the curb again, and start over. You won't be the first person―and certainly not the last―who tries parallel parking a few times before getting it right.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Keep in mind that some states require your vehicle to be within a certain distance from the curb. The ideal distance when parallel parking, for the safety of you and your vehicle, is to be within a few inches of the curb. If you're not close enough, don't be afraid to start again. And remember—practice makes perfect!&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Follow our site to get more information about <a href="http://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank">driving directions</a></div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-19017116129469985092017-05-26T20:14:00.000-07:002017-05-26T20:14:10.313-07:00An insider's guide to driving in Italy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8ZPTWVvp16E/WSjuwczZ5lI/AAAAAAAAAKM/RowLQDIi5MsRtJD8LRmosqo0cSoofzk2wCLcB/s1600/dt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="268" data-original-width="425" height="251" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8ZPTWVvp16E/WSjuwczZ5lI/AAAAAAAAAKM/RowLQDIi5MsRtJD8LRmosqo0cSoofzk2wCLcB/s400/dt.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So you're ready to go. You've booked your flight, arranged your accommodation and organized a hire car. Awaiting is a week of motoring through Italy's magical countryside. But what's it really likes to drive in Italy? Is it as nerve-wracking as it's made out to be? Do you need the skills of a Formula One driver to cut it on the nation's dog-eat-dog superstrate?</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Certainly, driving in Italy's main cities can be a white-knuckle experience but head out to the country and you'll find that the pace slackens and the roads are a lot less stressful. To help you on your way here are some insights based on years of experience and tens of thousands of kilometers.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Driving styles</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Italian drivers are fast, aggressive and skillful. Lane hopping and late braking are the norm and it's not uncommon to see cars tailgating at 130km/h. Don't expect people to slow down for you or let you out. Rather, seize the moment. As soon as you see a gap, go for it. Italians expect the unexpected and react swiftly but they're not used to ditherers so whatever you do, do it decisively.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Road etiquette</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Much driving etiquette is dictated by unwritten rules. Flashing, for example, means 'Get out of the way' or 'Don't pull out 'coz I'm not stopping'. But if an approaching car flashes you, it's warning you that there's a police check ahead. Similarly, the car horn can mean everything from 'Watch out' to 'Ciao' to 'Let's celebrate, the traffic light's just turned green'.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">City challenges</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">When driving in cities watch out for traffic restrictions. Many city centers are off-limits to unauthorized traffic and if you slip into a ZTL (Zona a traffic limitation - reduced traffic zone) you risk being caught on camera and fined. City driving also involves dealing with one-way systems, scooters appearing out of nowhere and narrow streets better suited to horse-drawn chariots than modern cars. To escape the worst mayhem, drive in the early afternoon when traffic is at its lightest and parking is easier. Which brings us to...</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Parking</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Parking is a major headache. Space is at a premium in towns and cities and Italy's traffic wardens are annoyingly efficient. Car parks do exist but they usually fill up quickly, leaving you to park on the streets. If you park between blue lines make sure to get a ticket from the nearest meter (coins only) or tobacco (tobacconist) and display it on your dashboard. Note, however, that charges don't apply overnight, typically between 8 pm and 8 am.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Petrol stations</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">You'll find filling stations all over but smaller ones tend to close between about 1 pm and 3.30pm and on Sunday afternoons. This isn't as irritating as it might sound as many have self-service (fai da te) pumps that you can use anytime. Simply insert a bank note into the payment machine and press the number of the pump you want. Remembering, of course, to distinguish between benzina (petrol) and gasoline (diesel).</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">What to carry in the car</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Apart from your driving license, car documents, insurance papers and reflective safety vest, which you're legally obliged to carry, it's worth having some coins for parking meters. Also, if you're traveling with kids, keep some plastic bags to hand. Car sickness is a real possibility on winding country roads and things can prove messy unless you're prepared.</div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Car hire</h3><div style="text-align: justify;">Hiring a car in Italy is easy enough - agencies are widespread and all the usual rules and regulations apply. But bear in mind that a car is generally more hassle than it's worth in cities, so only hire one for the time you'll be out on the open road. Also, think about what kind of car to get. Rural road surfaces are not always the best and many agriturismo and beaches lie at the end of long, axle-busting tracks. Similarly, road signs can be iffy in remote areas, so consider paying for sat nav.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Follow our site to get more direction <a href="http://driving-directionsmaps.com/" target="_blank">driving directions</a></div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-50362327813755622382017-05-18T22:00:00.002-07:002017-05-18T22:00:52.121-07:00Have You Driven While Distracted? 8 Culprits to Avoid<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xDR6Q60R0YY/WR57XI7hy7I/AAAAAAAAAJw/Qiod8xlXUNINXErQYPpCWz-suPolXkU2QCLcB/s1600/93-driving-while-distracted-wide.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xDR6Q60R0YY/WR57XI7hy7I/AAAAAAAAAJw/Qiod8xlXUNINXErQYPpCWz-suPolXkU2QCLcB/s400/93-driving-while-distracted-wide.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />In 2013, 3,014 people were killed in crashes involving a distracted driver, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Texting while driving is one of the most dangerous driver distractions, but it's not the only one.<br /><h3>Here are seven other unsafe habits to avoid:&nbsp;</h3><br /><ol><li>Grooming: Pressed for time, some people conduct grooming activities in the car, such as putting on makeup or using an electric shaver. Do yourself and other drivers a favor by completing your morning routine at home.&nbsp;</li><li>Eating and drinking: Your steaming cup of coffee spills or ingredients slip out of your sandwich—any number of distractions can arise when you drive and dine. Stay safer by saving the refreshments until you're parked.&nbsp;</li><li>Monitoring passengers: In a recent State Farm™ Distracted Driving survey, 40% of drivers indicated that attending to children in the backseat was very distracting, while 53% of drivers said the same thing about having a pet in their lap while driving. Passenger distractions are particularly important for teen drivers to avoid: The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and State Farm teamed up to analyze a sample of 677 teen drivers involved in serious crashes. The study found that drivers who had peer passengers were more likely to be distracted before a crash as compared to teens involved in accidents while driving solo.&nbsp;</li><li>Rubbernecking: Slowing down to look at a traffic accident could cause an accident of your own. The same thing goes for lengthy looks at billboards, a street address or a great mountain view.&nbsp;</li><li>Listening to music: Playing your radio at a high volume or wearing headphones take your focus away from the road. These distractions reduce the likelihood you'll hear car horns, emergency vehicles or other key noises.&nbsp;</li><li>Infotainment systems: Similarly, with cars getting smarter, DVD players in the back for kids, and other passengers' devices, more distracting sounds than ever before may be coming from various parts of the car.&nbsp;</li><li>Daydreaming: If you've ever realized you just missed an exit because you weren't paying attention, you've experienced a common distraction: daydreaming. Resist the urge to drift off while driving, and keep your attention on the road. Vary your typical driving routes. A change in scenery and traffic conditions could help you stay alert.&nbsp;</li><li>Nodding off: According to a poll by the National Sleep Foundation®, an estimated 60% of Americans have admitted to driving while drowsy, and 37% have nodded off behind the wheel. If you feel sleepy, pull over. Walk around to rouse yourself, switch drivers or find a safe place to nap before you resume driving.</li></ol><div>Follow our site to give more direction: <a href="http://driving-directionsmaps.com/">driving directions</a></div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-79772944011757532772017-05-12T20:51:00.001-07:002017-05-12T20:51:24.486-07:00Top 10 Ways to Become a Better Driver<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FuyNovGM7fI/WRaBQ_HsDCI/AAAAAAAAAI0/-LRrXPtBwTwTB7L-L3jx4rPUo2973SrrgCLcB/s1600/rigvcqjgho6wf1b5xrc5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FuyNovGM7fI/WRaBQ_HsDCI/AAAAAAAAAI0/-LRrXPtBwTwTB7L-L3jx4rPUo2973SrrgCLcB/s400/rigvcqjgho6wf1b5xrc5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Every time you get behind the wheel, you're operating a very dangerous piece of machinery. Whether you're an experienced driver or you've just finished driver's ed class, there's always room for improvement when it comes to driving. Here are ten things you can do to hone your safe, smart driving skills.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>10. Take a Defensive Driving Course</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iwoWrKlryiM/WRaBd4kUoqI/AAAAAAAAAI4/3OCO4CSzzLAv4oOTwxuzyrQzu-_xVgZTQCLcB/s1600/mzjb6c7eqysbmq6pa14m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iwoWrKlryiM/WRaBd4kUoqI/AAAAAAAAAI4/3OCO4CSzzLAv4oOTwxuzyrQzu-_xVgZTQCLcB/s320/mzjb6c7eqysbmq6pa14m.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Not only can online driving courses save you money on your car insurance or take points off your driving record, they're actually pretty good refresher courses for anyone who's been driving for a while and the answers to those driver's license tests are just a hazy memory. Do you know how to eyeball how far ahead the vehicle in front of you should be based on your speed? Know the difference between a DUI and a DWI and how many drinks can impair you for each? Stuff like that is covered in these courses, usually around $35.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>9. Park with Precision</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CbtwxOhDroI/WRaBje6THCI/AAAAAAAAAI8/2zpaasZo5ocIgyMQYemozS4APD_i5jVdACLcB/s1600/785932595643340072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CbtwxOhDroI/WRaBje6THCI/AAAAAAAAAI8/2zpaasZo5ocIgyMQYemozS4APD_i5jVdACLcB/s320/785932595643340072.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Parking is (usually) easy once you get the hang of it, but in tight spots or when you're new to driving backward, it helps to know a few tricks. Here's an infographic on parallel, reverse, and forward parking; and step-by-step directions for parallel parking. If you'd like even more help when parking, consider these DIY sonic sensors for your car.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>8. Keep Your Hands on the Wheel at the Proper Positions</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h2s4Jofy9cI/WRaBn0yiP_I/AAAAAAAAAJA/CijGu7axcxAv4J4hWznfpazAjHGqUD2LwCLcB/s1600/785932595303442984.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-h2s4Jofy9cI/WRaBn0yiP_I/AAAAAAAAAJA/CijGu7axcxAv4J4hWznfpazAjHGqUD2LwCLcB/s320/785932595303442984.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For decades, driving instructors taught students to keep their hands on the steering wheel at the 10 and 2 positions on the clock. In the last few years, those guidelines have changed, so you're now supposed to keep your hands lower, at either 9 and 3 or 8 and 4. This gives you more control and stability when driving, and is also the most ergonomic position to hold your hands for long periods of time. Muscles more relaxed and having more control over your vehicle? Instantly, you're a better driver.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>7. Adjust Your Mirrors to Cover Your Blind Spots</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kLlyGLJrZdk/WRaBs7B0rpI/AAAAAAAAAJE/6BARRyQikzA-Qo8UG-E8vhagXBHXrY4wACLcB/s1600/785932595471945768.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kLlyGLJrZdk/WRaBs7B0rpI/AAAAAAAAAJE/6BARRyQikzA-Qo8UG-E8vhagXBHXrY4wACLcB/s320/785932595471945768.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Similar to the above, there's a better way to position your mirrors than you might have been taught: Adjust the side mirrors so far outward so they're just overlapping your rearview mirror. Here's an illustration.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>6. Don't Drive When You're Sleepy (or Otherwise Not Alert)</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xXuAfL8JxGw/WRaBynXIjpI/AAAAAAAAAJI/zKAEen2ALO8B3ULtX5fcvDvtklTRUt8XwCLcB/s1600/drgvqbnzgruqiinudxos.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xXuAfL8JxGw/WRaBynXIjpI/AAAAAAAAAJI/zKAEen2ALO8B3ULtX5fcvDvtklTRUt8XwCLcB/s320/drgvqbnzgruqiinudxos.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We all know the dangers of driving after drinking, but a serious lack of sleep could also impair you just as much (some people even sleep drive!)—and one out of every six fatal crashes involved a drowsy driver, according to a study in 2010. Any time your mental facilities could be compromised—whether from alcohol, poor sleep, new medication, or even having a horrible cold—is a time to stay off the road or find an alternative to driving.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>5. Don't Bother Speeding</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NFy484JEA9U/WRaB-pbBVaI/AAAAAAAAAJM/xUGC1UbyrhshDwFm0GZpt7TTgG_F-hhTACLcB/s1600/q46wuiiffcpzxadbbmuz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NFy484JEA9U/WRaB-pbBVaI/AAAAAAAAAJM/xUGC1UbyrhshDwFm0GZpt7TTgG_F-hhTACLcB/s320/q46wuiiffcpzxadbbmuz.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We all want to get to our destinations sooner, but all speeding really does is increase your risk of getting into an accident or getting a speeding ticket, it turns out. Here's the math behind it, and why you're better off just driving at or below the recommended speeds.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>4. Know the Best Way to Merge in Traffic</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4IAYEDZ39_w/WRaCF0aDmEI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/DFfkFa8sqBMt8jWSfv2PFjMVrkGh2YRGQCLcB/s1600/785932595726846760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4IAYEDZ39_w/WRaCF0aDmEI/AAAAAAAAAJQ/DFfkFa8sqBMt8jWSfv2PFjMVrkGh2YRGQCLcB/s320/785932595726846760.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Inefficient lane merging causes traffic, road rage, and accidents. Some people are aggressive lane cutters, while others politely take their place in a lane long before an exit. The best, most efficient solution for all of us is to stay calm and zipper merge, each one taking our turn. (It was worth a try. At the very least, when merging or when others are trying to merge, be patient but also don't be that guy holding up a whole lane. We can work together to improve traffic for all.)</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>3. Handle Tough Driving Conditions Like a Boss</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m8XfrWa_sfs/WRaCLGUggZI/AAAAAAAAAJU/DQgld6xCfdI1_m6OJOqV_UH2RXuL1Dn9ACLcB/s1600/785932596004971816.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m8XfrWa_sfs/WRaCLGUggZI/AAAAAAAAAJU/DQgld6xCfdI1_m6OJOqV_UH2RXuL1Dn9ACLcB/s320/785932596004971816.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Even the most experienced drivers can get thrown off by hazardous conditions. Here's how to drive in extreme winter weather (including steering through slippery snow), how to see better while driving at night, how to safely pass a car on a two-lane road, and why you should wear sunglasses but not use cruise control while it's raining.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>2. Ditch the Distractions and Know Where You're Going</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QHoDSs41IGM/WRaCT0EgPHI/AAAAAAAAAJY/a9ZpVVGg-dUX18iXtyOS167i2ds4RZN9QCLcB/s1600/qvw51xirhtsljei4yuo5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QHoDSs41IGM/WRaCT0EgPHI/AAAAAAAAAJY/a9ZpVVGg-dUX18iXtyOS167i2ds4RZN9QCLcB/s320/qvw51xirhtsljei4yuo5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">By now, we all know texting while driving is both dangerous and against the law. It's possible to drive safely while using your cell phone, but you're better off just turning it off and sticking it in your bag if you don't need it for navigating. Your cell phone isn't the only problem, though. If you eat while you drive, fiddle with the radio, or have a too-talkative passenger, you won't be able to drive as well. The danger of texting while driving is rightfully getting a lot of attention, but distracted driving, in general, is the main issue.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Related to this: the distraction of not knowing where you are or exactly how to get where you want to go. Even with your phone's or car's navigation system, you could find yourself saying, "Wait, which highway am I supposed to get on?" and in a panic make a sudden, dangerous move. Try to scope out your route as much as possible before you start driving—even using Google Street view so you're used to the landmarks and tricky intersections before you get in your car.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>1. Practice</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eaSrL2jKpBw/WRaCasS8GxI/AAAAAAAAAJc/BRGBdCOzQFktSp4kBipHHtlSDZ9jHI3ZgCLcB/s1600/785932596156450856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eaSrL2jKpBw/WRaCasS8GxI/AAAAAAAAAJc/BRGBdCOzQFktSp4kBipHHtlSDZ9jHI3ZgCLcB/s320/785932596156450856.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Finally, as the fine folks at Jalopnik point out in their driver skills article, the top way to becoming a better driver is to drive more—conscienciously, of course, keeping the above in mind. It is, after all, a skill—one we shouldn't take too much for granted.</div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-60436612488254716202017-04-21T18:48:00.006-07:002017-04-21T18:48:51.301-07:00Driving in Italy: Car Rental Information & Tips<h2><span style="color: blue;">Driving Overview</span></h2><b>Highway Information</b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Italy has an excellent network of roads and highways that is one of the most extensive in Europe, comprising nearly 4000mi/6400km of express highways and 180,000mi/288,000km of secondary roads. The country's famous super highways or 'autostrade' ('autostrada' is the singular form) run the length and breadth of the peninsula. These toll roads are supported by an excellent network of secondary roads, classified into different categories of national highways ('strade statali'), provincial roads ('strade provinciali') and municipal roads ('strade communali'). Due to the success of companies like Fiat, Italians have a high level of car ownership. This can create congestion in some of the northern areas and in cities. But in southern parts of the country, the roads are less crowded.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8-9An1l1Sb4/WPq1qMBCR4I/AAAAAAAAAHw/bipxjqU_XJk9dVQ_5V4T2G53hG1dnDCigCLcB/s1600/driving-in-italy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8-9An1l1Sb4/WPq1qMBCR4I/AAAAAAAAAHw/bipxjqU_XJk9dVQ_5V4T2G53hG1dnDCigCLcB/s1600/driving-in-italy.jpg" /></a></div><b><br /></b><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Rules of the Road</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">When driving your rental car in Italy, it is nice to know traffic travels on the right, similar to the US. If you are stopped for a traffic violation, police are empowered to collect fines on the spot making it necessary to keep cash on hand. More information about driving in Italy can be found below or in our Italy Travel Guide.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Gas</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Gas stations are open from 7 am to 12:30 pm and from 3:30 pm to 7 pm. Most stations are closed on Sundays. There are 24-hour stations along the highways.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Tolls</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The 'autostrade' is Italy's toll superhighway and toll cards can be purchased at banks or at Automobile Club d'Italia (ACI) offices.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Parking</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Street parking is confined to the right side of the street. In blue zones, a parking disk, obtained at tourist offices, ACI offices or gas stations must be displayed on the dashboard. Parking in this zone is limited to one hour.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Speed Limits</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Speed limits in Italy are as follows:</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">City - 30mph/50kph</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Open Roads - 66mph/110kph</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Highways - 81mph/130kph</li></ul><br /><h2><span style="color: blue;">Italy Driving Tips</span></h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-svUYV4GHvI0/WPq2ShpA2ZI/AAAAAAAAAH4/bQIeipiWhPI0PijH7iqRpnBT7NCco9H2wCLcB/s1600/about-driving-a-rental-car-in-italy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-svUYV4GHvI0/WPq2ShpA2ZI/AAAAAAAAAH4/bQIeipiWhPI0PijH7iqRpnBT7NCco9H2wCLcB/s1600/about-driving-a-rental-car-in-italy.jpg" /></a></div><div><span style="color: blue;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Don't Panic If You're Tailgated&nbsp;</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Tailgating in Italy is common practice, so don't become shaken when this happens. Do your best to keep up with traffic, but do not drive faster than what makes you comfortable. &nbsp;Tailgaters will pass you at the first opportunity, so just keep your cool and give them room.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>ZTL Zones - Where You Can and Can't Drive</b> &nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Many larger Italian cities have instituted ZTL (Zona Traffico Limitato) zones in order to reduce traffic congestion in major city centers. These areas are surveyed by traffic cameras and the instant your vehicle crosses this zone, a ticket is issued and forwarded to your home address. It's important you know where you can and cannot drive in Florence, Rome and other cities with ZTLs in order to avoid traffic citations.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Watch Out for Scooters and Mopeds in Italy</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In addition to speeders and tailgaters, you'll have to watch out for scooters and mopeds while driving in Italy. Don't be surprised if they pull right out in front of you from a side street without warning. Defensive driving is important when touring Italy by car, be on the lookout at all times and be prepared for anything. The swell in traffic during the busiest tourist months can make navigating the streets by the car a bit more difficult, so wary travelers would do well to research the best time to visit Italy depending on what you're looking to see and do.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Don't Use Mobile Devices While Driving</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Use of handheld cellular devices is strictly prohibited while driving in Germany, and if caught you may face steep fines. Hands-free devices are permitted, but it is still recommended to avoid the distractions of cellular devices unless completely necessary.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Tolls in Italy</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are numerous toll roads in Italy, and it can be tricky to understand since there isn't one single company in charge of collecting money. Individual stretches of roadway are monitored by separate companies, with the toll amount depending on the distance traveled. It's advised to always carry cash on you when driving in Italy in order to pay tolls. Credit cards are accepted at some locations, but not at others.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Gas Stations in Italy&nbsp;</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Gas stations that are located along the Autostrade are usually open 24 hours a day. Some stations along other Italian roadways are open from 7am-7pm, with a break around noon. When picking up your rental car in Italy at the local rental counter, be sure you know which type of fuel your vehicle requires and that you're up to speed on the company's fuel return policy.</div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-44159720444983760102017-04-21T18:37:00.003-07:002017-04-21T18:37:21.436-07:006 Little-Known Driving Tips That Could Save Your Life<div style="text-align: justify;">Driving a car, or getting run over by one, is still one of the most popular ways to get killed in the modern world. Despite the fact that cars are safer than ever, they are still driven by human beings who, let's face it, often have trouble retaining even the minimal techniques and rules required to operate a vehicle.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But if you're reading this, hopefully it means that you are intent on doing what it takes to survive in a world full of such drivers by being just a little more careful. So for you, here are some advanced tips that everyone should know, even if most people don't ...</div><h2>6. Don't Have Your Car Visible Anywhere in Your Mirrors</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YJTRxIM8vDs/WPqv0OmWcsI/AAAAAAAAAGc/gewYq6__txE-FDyuhes9RME7ISOL7NxSQCLcB/s1600/154359_v1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YJTRxIM8vDs/WPqv0OmWcsI/AAAAAAAAAGc/gewYq6__txE-FDyuhes9RME7ISOL7NxSQCLcB/s400/154359_v1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">This is one of those things that takes next to zero effort to do right, but that almost everyone does wrong.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">You hopefully already know that the "blind spot" is the name for the area on either side of a car that is invisible to wing mirrors. It's such a frequent cause of accidents that higher-end car models have adopted fancy radar or camera systems capable of detecting other vehicles in your blind spots and delivering the information to you in furiously urgent beep-screams as you swerve in terror and/or crash anyway.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYARfP48oM4/WPqv-iK7jnI/AAAAAAAAAGg/ZhirjYF7Fbk0gz1EZmHBHYQXXgdPTUSGwCLcB/s1600/155041_v1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZYARfP48oM4/WPqv-iK7jnI/AAAAAAAAAGg/ZhirjYF7Fbk0gz1EZmHBHYQXXgdPTUSGwCLcB/s320/155041_v1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Just gritting your teeth and flooring it isn't the answer.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">However, the technology isn't the problem -- the necessary equipment to eliminate blind spots was around back when Henry Ford was still producing cars and anti-Semitic newsletters. All you need are your car's wing mirrors -- which most people have adjusted incorrectly.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">You see, blind spots can be put into full view of your side mirrors, provided that these mirrors are adjusted to contain no part of your own car. Just angle them away from you until the point where your car is no longer visible in either one and leave them there. That way, there's no overlap between them and the rearview mirror, and any car that's passing you on either side will remain in at least one of your mirrors until it enters your field of vision.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_DHm6x4jEwI/WPqwOgboYdI/AAAAAAAAAGk/m6wXWFclluAFOIxAz02ugGt5G9YnsnyZwCEw/s1600/155042_v1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_DHm6x4jEwI/WPqwOgboYdI/AAAAAAAAAGk/m6wXWFclluAFOIxAz02ugGt5G9YnsnyZwCEw/s320/155042_v1.jpg" width="283" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Admittedly, this seems less like a "tip" and more like "the most obvious piece of instruction of all time," but nobody freaking does it. Manufacturers have to let you adjust the mirrors (due to things like differences in driver height), and most people simply don't know how to do it. That's why those same engineers are spending millions on technology meant to eliminate blind spots -- they have simply failed to teach people not to point their goddamned mirrors at the sides of the vehicle they're attached to.</div><br /><h2>5. Pay More Attention to Traffic Than Road Signs</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rO68JPtANOA/WPqwc6XfnFI/AAAAAAAAAGo/5Deo8F1tn-Q8XYKZI7GzCDBBzyN_9eCyQCLcB/s1600/154358_v2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rO68JPtANOA/WPqwc6XfnFI/AAAAAAAAAGo/5Deo8F1tn-Q8XYKZI7GzCDBBzyN_9eCyQCLcB/s400/154358_v2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">If you saw someone blow past a yield sign into traffic and vanish in an explosion of steel and glass not unlike one of the Iron Giant's volcanic diarrheas, you'd be tempted to blame the crash on the driver who ignored the road sign.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But what if the yield sign wasn't there, like those intersections where there's nothing but an esoteric flashing yellow light and everyone stops and stares at each other? There would probably still be the odd person who flies through, but average drivers would become extremely cautious as a result of having no clear instruction of what to do. They would instead just intuit their next move based on the traffic around them, which is kind of the point of stoplights and road signs to begin with -- to force you to stop and look.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pR94Uu7cQ_Q/WPqwmnM6aeI/AAAAAAAAAGs/Sw7mHj2jEYonfQ58ocu-gdn5pFmm1pFLACLcB/s1600/154301_v1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pR94Uu7cQ_Q/WPqwmnM6aeI/AAAAAAAAAGs/Sw7mHj2jEYonfQ58ocu-gdn5pFmm1pFLACLcB/s1600/154301_v1.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"What the hell does 'yield' mean, anyway?!"</i></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">In other words, you may be better off without the signs.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are experts who believe that the overabundance of signs and signals just make you complacent, because you're fixated on blindly following instructions printed on reflective metal rather than not killing your fellow drivers. And we've all seen it happen -- drivers with a green light will plow through an intersection and T-bone another car that was clearly in their path, simply because the pretty colored light told them they had the right of way. And think about how people will lose their freaking minds if traffic and/or weather conditions have them driving slower than the posted speed limit, routinely causing accidents by trying to weave their way back up to maximum warp, even though the speed limit is literally just a number on a sign that takes absolutely nothing into consideration beyond what a few civil engineers came up with on a calculator 30 years ago.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XccsU4KF6sM/WPqwwyw1xFI/AAAAAAAAAGw/GECbURGgEec5fBpwK3wd1E3RNcJWur7NwCLcB/s1600/154302.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XccsU4KF6sM/WPqwwyw1xFI/AAAAAAAAAGw/GECbURGgEec5fBpwK3wd1E3RNcJWur7NwCLcB/s1600/154302.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"15 mph is fast enough for anyone. Those buggy drivers are out of control."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Dutch city of Drachten decided to test out the theory by replacing 20 four-way intersections with 20 roundabouts free of any road signage, and the results were surprisingly nothing like The Cannonball Run. One intersection that typically killed two to four people every year saw no injuries for the next six years, and another intersection went from 36 accidents in the previous four years to just two in two years. All this just from putting more responsibility into the hands of drivers and forcing them to interact with each other in the absence of indifferent commands from stoplights and signs (although it could also be related to the fact that nobody in the Netherlands has a The Fast and the Furious: Tokyo Drift poster on their bedroom wall).</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Since the success in Drachten, a number of other cities have tried out similar concepts, most notably London, whose recently debuted Exhibition Road looks like the guy in charge of painting lines on the streets was tripping balls that day.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3CcAZu0OxXY/WPqxAQ5chPI/AAAAAAAAAG0/fgQa6kOM_nQzEswpn_sQ4eaXINrmQfMIACLcB/s1600/154303_v2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3CcAZu0OxXY/WPqxAQ5chPI/AAAAAAAAAG0/fgQa6kOM_nQzEswpn_sQ4eaXINrmQfMIACLcB/s320/154303_v2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>We're still not clear on how this is supposed to help, but there you are.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">We're not saying that you should ignore stoplights and road signs, but that you shouldn't rely on them to make every decision for you. Just because you had the right of way at an intersection won't make you any less dead if you pull in front of an 18 wheeler, and refusing to slow down for pedestrians because they aren't crossing in a designated crosswalk won't put you any less in jail if you chop them in half with your Daewoo.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Or maybe we should just put it this way: Obey the signs, but assume that nobody else is doing so.</div><br /><h2>4. Listening to Techno Makes Your Driving Worse</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--BVRM5p4SU8/WPqxOo1JN1I/AAAAAAAAAG4/5FvoLoEupcoQSF2jMcst4dwWsz8jywkIwCLcB/s1600/154357_v1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--BVRM5p4SU8/WPqxOo1JN1I/AAAAAAAAAG4/5FvoLoEupcoQSF2jMcst4dwWsz8jywkIwCLcB/s400/154357_v1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Every car comes with a stereo and speakers, but you don't find much in driving manuals about what you should or shouldn't do with them. So it's easy to assume that it's safe to bump some jams while driving, as long as you're focused on the road and not constantly messing with the knobs or looking at yourself in the rearview mirror while you're singing. But research shows that your tunes are probably making you a worse driver, even if you just like a little ambient music in your Prelude.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BctgfO0q_rs/WPqxXpboCHI/AAAAAAAAAG8/J-w2S4NdgpI7UOX4XLvCIe4wd15HD9vygCLcB/s1600/154305_v1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BctgfO0q_rs/WPqxXpboCHI/AAAAAAAAAG8/J-w2S4NdgpI7UOX4XLvCIe4wd15HD9vygCLcB/s1600/154305_v1.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"These whale songs are so ... *yawn* ... so ..."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;">An Israeli study connected test subjects to heart monitors and put them through a driving simulator while they listened to the music of varying tempos. A no-music control group experienced significant heart rate fluctuation while driving -- that is, their heart sped up when things got exciting, like if a moose turned up in the street or something. But those who were listening to any type of music saw their heart rate stay level (except during the Les Miserables soundtrack, when their heart rates soared with bittersweet triumph).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">At first glance, this suggests that the drivers who were listening to music were calmer, and thus more careful drivers than the control group. But it was the opposite -- the music group Dukes of Hazzarded their way through the virtual driving course like they were running moonshine for a one-legged banjo player. They were calm (maybe), but only because they were less focused on driving than the control group -- they were placated by the music.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IBtNFoJ7nNg/WPqxnZRd6bI/AAAAAAAAAHA/jQnfJr7OYy0O0-JHQ7R_mZo_ATMLEiUvwCLcB/s1600/154304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IBtNFoJ7nNg/WPqxnZRd6bI/AAAAAAAAAHA/jQnfJr7OYy0O0-JHQ7R_mZo_ATMLEiUvwCLcB/s320/154304.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Which is why your creepy uncle always told you that mood music was the key.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The study also showed that drivers who were listening to higher-tempo music (between 120 and 140 beats per minute, the speed of most dance and techno music) were twice as likely to blast through red lights and had twice as many accidents as those who were listening to slower music or the deafening echo of their own thoughts. Drivers who were listening to dubstep were 84 percent more likely to believe that there was a Transformer behind them trying to mate with their car.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2>3. Always Have Your Headlights On</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e9sarjQaXA4/WPqxzZGC2RI/AAAAAAAAAHE/mRVpAF9p6uYEKIN7i00Y_p56QXjkHiQhgCLcB/s1600/154355_v1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e9sarjQaXA4/WPqxzZGC2RI/AAAAAAAAAHE/mRVpAF9p6uYEKIN7i00Y_p56QXjkHiQhgCLcB/s400/154355_v1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">According to a recent study, you can reduce your risk of being involved in an accident by up to 32 percent simply by driving with your headlights on at all times. This seems like common sense -- obviously, something that is lit up is going to be more visible, regardless of the time of day. And as long as other cars are driven by tired, distracted human beings, greater visibility equals less chance of having a hood ornament embedded in your skull. Yet almost nobody drives with their lights on during the day (and cars with automatic lights won't flick on until the sun goes down).</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8-jxTU1llm4/WPqx6W8AK4I/AAAAAAAAAHI/xrUaRUY3XpMsL7MbqmryfWzFsepzkyZrwCLcB/s1600/154307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8-jxTU1llm4/WPqx6W8AK4I/AAAAAAAAAHI/xrUaRUY3XpMsL7MbqmryfWzFsepzkyZrwCLcB/s1600/154307.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"How will I sneak up on unsuspecting motorists now?"</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Other drivers are simply less likely to pull out in front of you if they can instantly see the glare of your headlights in a quick glance (unless they were planning to cut you off, in which case they are shitheads and the accident was unavoidable). This also counts for pedestrians and cyclists, who statistically will sometimes miss their own oncoming death unless there are bright lights attached to it.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In countries like Canada, Sweden, and Finland, all new cars are required to have automatic running lights that stay on at all times, and you can get them on some new car models in the U.S. But the majority of drivers still have dusty old manual headlights, so if you're one of those people, you'll just have to dig deep and flick your lights on and off every time you drive (we know, we know -- it hardly seems worth all the effort, but trust us, you'll be much safer).</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PyG81W-fKPY/WPqyJBZM8KI/AAAAAAAAAHM/1WCNbPvdJRUgZP-N-x10jXFV-nyTcfd-gCLcB/s1600/154308_v1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PyG81W-fKPY/WPqyJBZM8KI/AAAAAAAAAHM/1WCNbPvdJRUgZP-N-x10jXFV-nyTcfd-gCLcB/s1600/154308_v1.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"LIGHTS?! Are you crazy? I'm already late for work!"</i></div><br /><h2>2. Your Parking Break Stops Working if You Don't Use It Regularly</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ye1zGXqvgUQ/WPqyToYBA2I/AAAAAAAAAHQ/b4H4WCByvCoRuqrNpqdO7uxiDwBZligzwCLcB/s1600/154354.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ye1zGXqvgUQ/WPqyToYBA2I/AAAAAAAAAHQ/b4H4WCByvCoRuqrNpqdO7uxiDwBZligzwCLcB/s400/154354.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Of all the aspects of driving, parking should be the most straightforward. Basically, you take the keys out of the ignition and get out of the car (hopefully after putting the car in park, hopefully not in the middle of an elementary school).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Oh, and if you're on an incline, maybe pull the parking brake. If you don't, you might end up like this guy, which is simultaneously a worst- and best-case scenario.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GMVdAy5VFHE/WPqycLlVs2I/AAAAAAAAAHU/wMAJuj-ajl4hTfd2ruraDTbAogjvnONSACLcB/s1600/154362_v1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GMVdAy5VFHE/WPqycLlVs2I/AAAAAAAAAHU/wMAJuj-ajl4hTfd2ruraDTbAogjvnONSACLcB/s320/154362_v1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Inexplicably, the next shot is him bending back down to continue filling the gas tank.</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But here's something most people don't know: You should probably put on the parking brake, regardless of whether you've stopped on the taxiway of a Delta terminal or at the summit of the Grinch's mountain, just to keep it in good working order.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">You see, the parking brake is also commonly called the emergency brake, and as the name suggests, it can be used in a situation when your brakes fail or have been otherwise disabled by enemy agents. It overrides the hydraulic mechanism normally used to control the brakes and stops you with cables, which are demonstrably better than hydraulics because hydraulics never cut anyone in half in a Die Hard movie.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But the problem with steel cables is that they often rust and corrode, particularly after long periods of disuse. The way parking brake cables are designed, if you don't engage the brake every so often, the corrosion builds up and will cause it to fall apart like the bad guy in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zZShau-PLe8/WPqypZVt1_I/AAAAAAAAAHY/ZceP3G1S5W85P0TB-_P3J53UpQOz2acYQCLcB/s1600/154295_v2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zZShau-PLe8/WPqypZVt1_I/AAAAAAAAAHY/ZceP3G1S5W85P0TB-_P3J53UpQOz2acYQCLcB/s320/154295_v2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>You'll want to skid out regularly, and with a gun so you feel extra cool.</i></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">So if you bought your car back when the cast members of Harry Potter were still children and have never used the parking brake, and then suddenly throw it on to bail yourself out of an honest-to-God emergency, such as barreling down the switchback of Lombard Street toward a rampaging atomic monster bursting out of San Francisco Bay, the cables will probably just snap under the strain and result in a headstone that will seriously confuse future archaeologists. Unless the monster wasn't just a one-time thing.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h2>1. Don't Brake During a Blowout</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qK8DBLUQmr0/WPqy2WQ4-xI/AAAAAAAAAHc/x3pKs4sxzeYhTTUbyKj8Kd3YM6qqrxEYACLcB/s1600/154356.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-qK8DBLUQmr0/WPqy2WQ4-xI/AAAAAAAAAHc/x3pKs4sxzeYhTTUbyKj8Kd3YM6qqrxEYACLcB/s400/154356.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">The knee-jerk reaction to pretty much all panicky driving moments is to stand on the brakes like goblins are trying to crawl out of them, and in most cases, this is absolutely correct.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HF2ufcvgQO0/WPqy92X9U2I/AAAAAAAAAHg/VYU6VmGgtfQnArgJGzmpCznu3xPL1RMYACLcB/s1600/154296_v1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HF2ufcvgQO0/WPqy92X9U2I/AAAAAAAAAHg/VYU6VmGgtfQnArgJGzmpCznu3xPL1RMYACLcB/s1600/154296_v1.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Unless you're in a Speed-like scenario</i></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">That being said, imagine you're cruising down the highway at about 65 mph when all of a sudden you hear your rear tire explode like you just ran over a tiny landmine. As you fire the shit out of your pant leg like a muddy trumpet, you can feel that the car is about to go out of control. If you follow your instincts, you'll probably hit the brakes, but in this case, your instincts have tragically failed you.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">See, if you brake during a blowout, you're almost certain to fishtail (and maybe flip), possibly into another fast-moving car or the median (or both). This is especially true if your rear tire has blown out, which is more likely than a front tire blowout (front tires wear out more quickly, but people see that and replace them, while leaving the rear tires in place for years and years as part of their plan to just drive the car until it slowly disintegrates).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wVIFBhbsXrk/WPqzMEmcHII/AAAAAAAAAHk/-Z_44RuvAk4bH6qvyBATSZxd_WHe0jA-ACLcB/s1600/154300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wVIFBhbsXrk/WPqzMEmcHII/AAAAAAAAAHk/-Z_44RuvAk4bH6qvyBATSZxd_WHe0jA-ACLcB/s1600/154300.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"Still here, eh? Well played, car."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">So in the event of a blowout, you must do the very thing that makes the least sense: hit the gas. But don't drop an elbow on it like Macho Man Randy Savage; just squeeze it firmly for a couple of seconds to regain control, keeping the car as straight as possible. A completely blown or otherwise flat tire drags on the ground like an anchor -- if you slam on the brakes, the anchor catches at 65 mph or however fast you're going, and you're screwed. Ditto if you smash the gas pedal -- picture a cigarette boat tossing its anchor down at top speed. Give the car just enough speed to stay in control and then gently let your foot off the gas, turning into the blown tire (if you steer the opposite direction, the anchor catches). The tire that betrayed you will eventually bring the car to a stop on its own, and then you can get out and throw your pants into the woods.</div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-22299687449203922562017-04-14T19:11:00.000-07:002017-04-14T19:11:13.878-07:00Driving Laws in the UK<div style="text-align: justify;">If you're planning to book a rental car in the UK during your next vacation, becoming well-versed in local driving laws in the UK is crucial to enjoying a hassle-free road trip. In this section of our United Kingdom travel guide, we'll delve into the UK driving laws and child safety guidelines to assist you in avoiding fines while simultaneously maintaining a high level of comfort and safety while on the road. For additional information and answers to your questions, visit our UK Car Rental FAQ page.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XTpN4JwPPJg/WPGAhVTy_0I/AAAAAAAAAGI/pyICzCJLAOg7vw13ltgR6TPj_L-F6b7bgCLcB/s1600/uk-driving-laws-and-child-safety-auto-europe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="201" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XTpN4JwPPJg/WPGAhVTy_0I/AAAAAAAAAGI/pyICzCJLAOg7vw13ltgR6TPj_L-F6b7bgCLcB/s320/uk-driving-laws-and-child-safety-auto-europe.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">In the UK (and much of Europe for that matter), a child must use a child seat until they're twelve years old, or at least three and a 3.5 feet tall. Child seats in the UK must meet European Union guidelines, indicated by a large label showing a capital 'E' in a circle.</li><li>Talking on the phone while driving is illegal in the United Kingdom and can net you a minimum £100 fine.</li><li>Turning on a red light is forbidden in the United Kingdom. Whereas you may be able to make a "right on red" in the USA or Canada, you may only make a "left on red" in the United Kingdom when there is a specific arrow designating that you may.</li><li>Passing in the left lane (which is the slow lane in the UK) is forbidden in the UK except when the right lane is traveling slower than the left. If you do pass on the left lane, return to the right as soon as possible.</li><li>Insurance for your British rental car is required by law and can be attained through your credit card company, purchased locally upon arrival, or can be purchased in addition to your car rental when you book with Auto Europe.</li><li>Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or other mind-altering substances, including prescription medications, is strictly prohibited and met with zero tolerance in the United Kingdom. Similar to the US, a legal blood-alcohol concentration in the UK must be below 0.08%.</li><li>Driving laws in the United Kingdom are dictated by the Highway Code, a set of mandatory rules and regulations, guides, recommendations, and other information for anyone who may be driving in the United Kingdom. The Highway Code applies to drivers, cyclists, commercial vehicle drivers, pedestrians, and even animals, so it's applicable to anyone (or anything) that may be on the road.</li></ul>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-6717511879073091332017-04-14T19:03:00.000-07:002017-04-14T19:03:14.131-07:00Tips for Driving in the UK<div style="text-align: justify;">Driving in the United Kingdom, or any new place for that matter, can seem scary and intimidating at first, but after perusing our tips for driving in the UK, you'll find yourself enjoying a hassle-free vacation and driving like a Brit in no time! If you're looking for recommendations on where to stop while on your self-guided road trip, or are looking for more general information about traveling in the United Kingdom, check out our comprehensive travel guide to the UK.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mPNkaPbDZ3I/WPF-i2e8sEI/AAAAAAAAAF8/QZ818g8tAi0sQgp72gh_oDdPJozRsU-5ACLcB/s1600/how-to-navigate-roundabout-uk-auto-europe.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="186" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mPNkaPbDZ3I/WPF-i2e8sEI/AAAAAAAAAF8/QZ818g8tAi0sQgp72gh_oDdPJozRsU-5ACLcB/s320/how-to-navigate-roundabout-uk-auto-europe.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li><b>Driving on the Left Side of the Road</b></li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Driving on the left side of the road means many of your normal habits, such as turning, yielding, and knowing what direction to look for incoming traffic, will be backward.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li><b>Local Driving Habits</b></li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Driving in London or other large cities, especially during rush hour, can be hectic and other drivers on the road are likely to be less pleasant towards foreign drivers holding up traffic.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li><b>Navigating Roundabouts</b></li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">If you've driven in New England or Ontario before, you're likely familiar with roundabouts; vehicles already in the roundabout have the right of way in every situation, except when marked otherwise.Take your time, and if necessary, drive around the roundabout several times until you're confident you're making the correct turn in the appropriate manner.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li><b>Avoid City Centers When Possible</b></li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">A vast majority of automobile collisions in the United Kingdom occur in congested urban areas, and for that reason, Auto Europe advises drivers to avoid city centers when possible, especially if they're still uncomfortable navigating roundabouts and driving on the left side of the road. If you want to drive in downtown London between 7 AM and 6 PM., you'll have to pay a congestion charge of £11.50 per day.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li><b>Utilize Carriageways and Motorways</b></li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Also known as highways, carriageways and motorways are the most time-effective and safest way to navigate the UK by car. Highways in the UK are organized by primary and regional destinations, where motorways (larger highways) connect primary destinations such as major cities, and carriageways (smaller highways, typically never more than two lanes in each direction) connect smaller destinations, such as junctions and smaller towns and cities.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li><b>Overtaking/Passing</b></li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Overtaking other vehicles in the UK is a slightly different process than in the United States or Canada, as the law prohibits passing on the left except when the vehicle in front of you is signaling to turn right. The strict regulations are in place to protect other drivers, motorcyclists, bikers, and pedestrians.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div><ul><li><b>Wear Your Seatbelt</b></li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Wearing a seatbelt is a requirement by law for all UK drivers, you'll be fined a whopping £500 if you're found driving without your seatbelt.</div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-87646048338572449172017-04-05T20:54:00.001-07:002017-04-05T20:54:23.441-07:00Using a hazard routine<div style="text-align: justify;"><b>A hazard routine is a basic drill, or system of actions, that you will use each time you approach a hazard.</b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HT2yPvMwpfw/WOW7bdhMXMI/AAAAAAAAAFo/IjGrIF35cggK0E43EyZs__fZFG1pprDIACLcB/s1600/sheep_ahead.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HT2yPvMwpfw/WOW7bdhMXMI/AAAAAAAAAFo/IjGrIF35cggK0E43EyZs__fZFG1pprDIACLcB/s320/sheep_ahead.png" width="287" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">A hazard is anything that causes you to change your speed or direction, for example, junctions, parked cars, animals on the road, etcetera.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">By taking a routine approach, you will be sure that it is safe to carry out any action that may be necessary to deal with the hazard safely.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The basic routine for driving in the UK is Mirrors Signal Manoeuvre, abbreviated to MSM. The full routine, however has more abbreviations... These are MSM - PSL - LAD. The sequence of actions that make up this expanded Mirrors Signal Manoeuvre (MSM) hazard routine is:</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Mirrors</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Signal</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Position</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Speed</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Look</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Assess</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Decide (and act)</li></ul><br /><h2 style="text-align: justify;">MSM in action</h2><div style="text-align: justify;">The example below describes how you would use this basic routine to make a right turn (the diagram shows a car in the UK where we drive on the left).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #990000;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Mirrors</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">MSMAs soon as you are aware that there is a hazard ahead, you must check your mirrors to see what is happening behind. Just looking is not enough; you must ask yourself the question: 'Is it safe to carry out my manoeuvre?'</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Signal</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">When you are sure that it's safe to proceed, ask yourself if there are any other road users who need to know what you intend to do. If the answer is yes, give the appropriate signal (by indicator, arm or brake lights). After signalling, check your mirrors again to find out how drivers behind are reacting.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Position</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Check your mirrors to make sure that it's safe to move into the correct position for the manoeuvre.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Speed and Gear</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Use the footbrake to ensure that you have plenty of time to change gear before the hazard. If things seem rushed, you're going too fast. Make a final observation check all around and then complete your manoeuvre.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="color: #990000;">Look, Assess, Decide, Act.</span></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">While carrying out the hazard routine you must keep a constant look-out for other road users. Doing this will help to ensure that you have all the information you need to make the correct decisions about your intended actions.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Note that mirrors have been mentioned at least three times in the routine above - there is no set number of times to check your mirrors; the important thing is that you MUST always know how your actions will affect following drivers and how their actions will affect your plans. Use your mirrors as often as necessary during the routine.</div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-53555346662366778642017-03-31T18:46:00.002-07:002017-03-31T18:46:43.226-07:00SAFE DRIVING TIPS AND TECHNIQUESSafe driving is not only essential for the safety of yourself and the vehicles occupants but with ever increasing insurance costs, an accident may increase your car insurance premium drastically.<br /><br />&nbsp;Upon passing the driving test, bad driving habits soon accumulate and become part of normal driving for many of us. These bad habits may seem trivial, but it’s these bad habits that are the result of most road traffic accidents.<br />Explained are essential, but simple safe driving tips designed to enhance your driving skills, confidence and awareness leading to a better, safer driver.<br /><br />Although there are many more drivers on the roads these days, there are fewer fatalities. This is due to safer road conditions, safer vehicles and in part, the higher standards needed in obtaining a driving licence.<br /><br />Many of the bad driving habits unfortunately remain with many and below details the most common causes of road accidents and how they can be prevented.<br /><br /><h3><b>DRIVING TOO CLOSE TO OTHER VEHICLES</b></h3><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PFkYGy2s6V4/WN8FS7zKuPI/AAAAAAAAAEE/lveS0v3ltPgMfslkTaT8k6Jmm9O_QiOrACLcB/s1600/car-door-mirror.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PFkYGy2s6V4/WN8FS7zKuPI/AAAAAAAAAEE/lveS0v3ltPgMfslkTaT8k6Jmm9O_QiOrACLcB/s320/car-door-mirror.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Driving too closely to another vehicle in front (tailgating) is dangerous and is one of the main causes of road accidents as it simply does provide a driver with enough reaction time to stop in the event of the vehicle braking or stopping suddenly. Tailgating is also illegal. In the event of sudden braking or stopping, it not only increases the chance of you hitting the vehicle in front but the vehicle behind you is at risk of hitting you also.<br /><b><br /></b><b>Safe Driving</b><br />Maintaining a safe following distance increases your thinking and stopping distance. If you are unsure of a safe following distance, the 2 second rule is an easy method for such safety aspects.Other than safety factor, driving too close to a vehicle in front causes greater brake and disc wear due to the constant accelerating and slowing, increases fuel consumption. A safe following distance allows the car more often to slow down without the need to brake and as a result less acceleration is needed.If a vehicle is driving too close behind you, increasing the distance from yourself and the vehicle in front of you will allow you to slow down over a greater distance, therefor giving the driver behind more time to react. Along with keeping a safe driving distance, safe braking techniques such as progressive braking makes for safer driving, and reduces wear on braking systems and tyres. As it enables you to keep better control of the car.<br /><h3><b>CHANGING LANES</b></h3>40% of all road accidents are due to drivers failing to look properly. A typical example of why these accidents occur is a lack of appropriate observations before changing lanes. Most of us look into the mirrors before making a lane change but can forget to check the blind spot. A car can easily be obscured by either the left or right blind spot plus smaller vehicles such as motorcycles and in towns and villages cyclists.<br /><br /><b>Safe driving</b><br />Before changing lanes in any situation whether on motorways / dual carriageways, multi-lane carriageways in cities and even at busy roundabouts, check the mirrors followed by the applicable blind spot side. See the car blind spot for further information.<br /><h3>SPEEDING</h3>Speeding related accidents result in around a quarter of all fatalities. Speeding is not only dangerous but significantly increases fuel consumption and the time gained by speeding is often much less than you might think. For instance, driving at 80 mph instead of the legal limit of 70 mph on motorways can increase fuel consumption by up to 25% and over a 60 mile trip will save just 6 minutes.<br /><br /><b>Safe driving</b><br />It’s much safer and cheaper to plan your journey and to allow plenty of time to complete it. If you are late, think, does it really matter? Is what I am late for really worth the potential risks of speeding? Remember the next time you are speeding it will:<br /><br /><ul><li>increase the possibility of an accident that will affect others and not just you</li><li>increased fuel consumption</li><li>high risk of speeding tickets by static cameras or mobile patrols</li></ul><br /><h3>LOSS OF CAR CONTROL</h3>A loss of car control is often due to a driver traveling too fast for the road or weather conditions. A massive one third of all road accidents are due to this.<br /><br /><b>Safe driving</b><br />We are all aware of how perilous the roads can be in winter, but many lose control during the warmer months. A road that has been dry for a long period will produce a build-up of oil and grease which when dry is not an issue. As soon as the road surface comes in contact with water, the oil and grease will rise to the surface of the water making the road hazardous until it is washed away. During such conditions, significantly reduce your speed, especially on bends and increase the stopping distance from yourself and the vehicle in front.<br /><h3>AQUAPLANING</h3>Another issue associated with wet weather is aquaplaning. Aquaplaning is when a layer of water forms between the road surface and the tyres and depending on certain factors, can lead to a complete loss of car control. If ever experienced, aquaplaning is perhaps one of the most terrifying moments. Read the guide on minimising the effects of aquaplaning and how to regain control.Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-64531116279964464512017-03-31T18:36:00.000-07:002017-03-31T18:36:20.971-07:00How to adjust seating to the proper position while driving<div style="text-align: justify;">Many drivers do not position themselves correctly in their cars and therefore seriously lack control and comfort while driving. A good driving position can actually help preventing accidents, improve safety should an accident occur, and improve driving comfort. To adjust to the proper seating position, use the following tips.</div><h2 style="text-align: justify;">Steps</h2><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rEHUff-VCig/WN7-1_-osNI/AAAAAAAAAC0/m4NllJhmsVEaZU0Ex5JjADV-kk_N2GbbACLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-1-Version-4.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rEHUff-VCig/WN7-1_-osNI/AAAAAAAAAC0/m4NllJhmsVEaZU0Ex5JjADV-kk_N2GbbACLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-1-Version-4.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>1. Wear proper clothing.</b> Driving should be done with clothing that doesn’t limit the driver. In the winter, coats can interfere with proper steering as well as with proper adjustment of the seat and the operation of seat belts. Choose light and comfortable clothes.</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Footwear is obligatory. The shoes have to be placed snugly on the feet (unlike slippers) and fit nicely on the pedals (unlike boots, muddy soles, or high heels). A shoe with a thin but slightly dense sole is ideal.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The driver is also advised to wear a set of pants that run all the way down to the knee, even if it means wearing a set of pants over shorts or a swim-suit.</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TeswKkuX_ck/WN7_lq8yGOI/AAAAAAAAADA/ameCzJMw6MsX3_d30HP8o_-Zxc-DTxzfwCLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-2-Version-4.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TeswKkuX_ck/WN7_lq8yGOI/AAAAAAAAADA/ameCzJMw6MsX3_d30HP8o_-Zxc-DTxzfwCLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-2-Version-4.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>2. Position yourself correctly in the seat itself.</b> Make sure you sit straight and that your buttocks and back are square and completely squeezed into the seat. This helps to avoid backaches, possible back injuries and maintains awareness during long drives.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C6XZ88Luhb8/WN7_35ig8kI/AAAAAAAAADE/B2SR-xdM0VI94V9PFQ8yRf-P0gQUGKkywCLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-3-Version-4.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-C6XZ88Luhb8/WN7_35ig8kI/AAAAAAAAADE/B2SR-xdM0VI94V9PFQ8yRf-P0gQUGKkywCLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-3-Version-4.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>&nbsp;3. Adjust the seat distance.</b> The seat should always be positioned with regard to the pedals. Press the brake pedal fully with your right foot and fully depress the clutch (in a manual transmission car) or dead pedal (in an automatic). The distance should be adjusted so that with fully depressed pedals, your knees remain slightly bent (about 120 degrees).</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">To make sure your check is accurate, start the engine and press on the brakes a few times before performing the check to build up pressure.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">If the knee straightens, you are too far back. If it's bent close to 90 degrees, it's too close.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">A fully extended leg results in the knee locking-up. This reduces the leverage and feel of the pedals, increases effort, and puts you in risk of severe injuries to the feet in a collision;the straight knee will be fractured whereas the bent knee would fold down. Furthermore, the bone would project the shock up to the pelvic and lower spine.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">A knee excessively bent (when the driver sits too close) at an angle of about 100 degrees, does not support the body effectively and results in bad blood circulation. It can also hit the under-dash in a collision.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The thighs should be placed as far apart as is comfortable. In small cars, most people can create a wide enough base as to lean their knees against the center console on one side and the door on the other.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The feet should be placed with the heels on the floor and the balls of the feet pressing against the pedals. The right foot in particular should be able to pivot between the throttle and brake pedal while the heel is placed roughly in front of the brakes. This might mean that you don't cover the brake pedal fully when pressing it and that pressing the throttle is done with the foot at an angle, contacting the pedal close to its lower edge. This is the correct way to utilize the feet.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The left foot should be resting over the dead-pedal whenever not working on the clutch (or, in an automatic, at all times). This increases support to the pelvis and allows the driver to brace the body by applying pressure against the footrest in corners or in events of strong braking instead of hanging onto the pedals or steering.</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tUdERmzE7Nc/WN8AK6T-BeI/AAAAAAAAADI/x1bA7GqRUbQNeoEtpo360KJM6v74f3fmwCLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-4-Version-4.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tUdERmzE7Nc/WN8AK6T-BeI/AAAAAAAAADI/x1bA7GqRUbQNeoEtpo360KJM6v74f3fmwCLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-4-Version-4.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>&nbsp;4. Adjust the rake of the seat.</b> This should be as parallel as possible to the steering. It is impossible to reach a perfect adjustment (and it's also not really necessary), but by adjusting the rake of the seat to an upright angle of about 110-95 degrees, we can reach a suitable adjustment.</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">We cannot reach a perfect adjustment because placing the seat too upright will put pressure on the lower vertebrae, place our head too high, and because the steering itself is placed in an angle. We can adjust the seat back to a relatively upright position and then use the adjustment of the steering itself to place it as parallel to the back as possible.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">After adjusting the seat, including the height and the adjustments to the steering itself (below), we check the adjustment in the following manner: We place the wrist of our hand just over the topmost portion of the wheel. We should be able to place the wrist flat over the wheel and even bend it somewhat over the rim, while still keeping the shoulders (shoulder-blades) against the seat's back. This should be done with the arm straight but without putting in excessive effort.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">If our wrist only touches the face of the wheel (rather than be placed flat over it), or it we can only put the heel of the palm on the wheel, or if we need to lean our scapulae (shoulder-blades) forward -- we are too far back. This will make us lean forward somewhat when we steer.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">If we can touch the top of the wheel with our forearm or touch the top of the wheel with the wrist with the hand bent, we are too close to the wheel.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">In vehicles with large, horizontal steering rims (mainly trucks), we cannot reach such a posture and we just need to check that we can grip the topmost portion of the wheel without locking the elbow fully and without bouncing the scapulae forward.</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nz6R6yl03rY/WN8AqJClhBI/AAAAAAAAADM/FhuYxuA3vyUtLXkykA_s9JE8XVVvd5DQgCLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-5-Version-4.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nz6R6yl03rY/WN8AqJClhBI/AAAAAAAAADM/FhuYxuA3vyUtLXkykA_s9JE8XVVvd5DQgCLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-5-Version-4.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;<b>5. Adjust the steering height.</b> Where adjustable, the steering height should be adjusted to as parallel to back angle, and to a clear view of the dashboard through the rim. The ideal adjustment should also allow us to grip the wheel properly (at 9 and 3, see below), with our palms just lower than our shoulders.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZHaxuTQ-jA/WN8A5H8iyYI/AAAAAAAAADU/NbHgKC2o4tIPR3SajYXVdgoExHYi0Be4wCLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-6-Version-4.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZHaxuTQ-jA/WN8A5H8iyYI/AAAAAAAAADU/NbHgKC2o4tIPR3SajYXVdgoExHYi0Be4wCLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-6-Version-4.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>&nbsp;6. Adjust the steering distance.</b> Where adjustable, this should be adjusted with the steering wheel height, to as parallel to the back as possible. While gripping the wheel properly, our elbows should be bent at about 120 degrees. There should be a minimal clearance of 10" (and preferably 30cm) between the center of the steering hub and the base of the breastbone (sternum). It should also not be further away that 45 centimeter (17.7 in).</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B53I3OelQOY/WN8BGHU-oQI/AAAAAAAAADY/rxwo7osahuUQcU0oQEn-ZzQNOLM7e6fOQCLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-7-Version-3.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B53I3OelQOY/WN8BGHU-oQI/AAAAAAAAADY/rxwo7osahuUQcU0oQEn-ZzQNOLM7e6fOQCLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-7-Version-3.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>7. Adjust the seat height. </b>This should allow us to see forward clearly, while still having a clear view of the dashboard, and proper height relative to the wheel and pedals. In most cars, the proper height for forward vision should allow us to place five fingers (a hand width) between our head and the ceiling.</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">In cars with open or high ceiling, adjust so that you eyes are placed just above the center of the glass, without the visor obstructing your forward vision when open.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">After readjusting the height, recheck the feet to make sure the height adjust had not compromised it.</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1lR99ub0N8Q/WN8BZEYzwyI/AAAAAAAAADc/b7khgy21sFE2NYRjLCb5YQzzn32_bfHhgCLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-829460-8.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1lR99ub0N8Q/WN8BZEYzwyI/AAAAAAAAADc/b7khgy21sFE2NYRjLCb5YQzzn32_bfHhgCLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-829460-8.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>8. Adjust the head restraints</b>. Place the headrest to a height just above your eyelids, and (more importantly) -- as close to the head as possible (2-3cm). A head-restraint further than 7 centimeter (2.8 in) increases the risk of whiplash. Keep in mind that while driving our head bends forward a bit more. If you cannot adjust the head-restraint to the proper distance, you need to compensate by increasing the backrest tilt.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cbl_acTGdMk/WN8BnA420WI/AAAAAAAAADg/OwKIMf5MaqU1gAdu91QY6bHGpRG673zCACLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-9-Version-4.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cbl_acTGdMk/WN8BnA420WI/AAAAAAAAADg/OwKIMf5MaqU1gAdu91QY6bHGpRG673zCACLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-9-Version-4.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;<b>9. Make additional adjustments as necessary.</b></div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Lumbar support: Should provide equal pressure across the whole length of the back. For drivers with lumbar problems without such an adjustment, you can use one or two rolled towels.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Side Bolsters: Should be adjusted for the maximum possible hip support without limiting the ability to depress all pedals fully.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Seat base reclining: Should keep the thigh in full contact with the seat. Avoid too much reclining which will create pressure behind your knees, or interfere with strong braking (you should not apply pressure against the seat).</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Pedal adjustments: Should allow operation of the pedals as described above as comfortably as possible. You should be able to place your heel roughly in front of the brakes, place your foot on the brakes with the slightest possible offset to the right, and pivot as easily as possible towards the throttle pedal on the right, while keeping your knee bent at about 100 degrees.</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZSeG8LY40lg/WN8B1Tk6nyI/AAAAAAAAADk/8k9U1OKPm7wXpkLDqmTJ9a1Vq6AtA5PeACLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-10-Version-4.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZSeG8LY40lg/WN8B1Tk6nyI/AAAAAAAAADk/8k9U1OKPm7wXpkLDqmTJ9a1Vq6AtA5PeACLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-10-Version-4.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>&nbsp;10. Position your hands properly.</b> Your hands should both be on the wheel, at the 9 and 3 position. This increases the leverage on the wheel to a maximum. Your palms should be placed against the outer diameter of the wheel and the thumbs should be lightly hooked on the cross-brace of the wheel.</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">Grip and stabilize the wheel not only with the thumbs and/or palms, but mainly with your fingers and fingertips. In general, keep the grip of the wheel as light as possible without losing your control over the wheel. This results in better control and less fatigue.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Keep both hands on the wheel. Steering with one hand makes the weight of the hand work on the wheel, for which the shoulder muscles must be used to keep the wheel steady, resulting in a twist of the spine, especially if you get into the (bad) habit of holding the wheel from its top.</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gEvl9sOohxU/WN8CDBQ96CI/AAAAAAAAADo/vpvxO1Ih_lMDx6xKX-P8xYF5cOfCF9_HQCLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-11-Version-4.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gEvl9sOohxU/WN8CDBQ96CI/AAAAAAAAADo/vpvxO1Ih_lMDx6xKX-P8xYF5cOfCF9_HQCLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-11-Version-4.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>&nbsp;11. Wear your seat belt properly. </b>Adjust the lap-belt as snugly as possible over the waist. The belt should be physically tightened and placed as low as possible, on the pelvic bones, rather than the soft belly.</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">The shoulder strap should be adjusted to the height, so that the mounting is higher than the shoulder, and that the strap itself is placed over the acromion (middle of the shoulder), which is felt as a socket midway between the arm and neck.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">If the shoulder strap is placed on the neck or even on the collar bone (clavicle), it is too high and will cause fractures to the clavicle and cuts the neck.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">If the strap is placed too low on the shoulder itself or on the arm/under the armpit, it will not support the body and cause severe cuts to the arm.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">All passengers should be strapped, and little children need to be harnessed in the suitable child seats and boosters. There are also special straps for pets. There are also other points that are worthwhile for the passengers:</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Head restraint adjustment</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Window adjustment</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Proper placing of limbs relative to airbags: Avoid placing feet over the passenger's airbag or placing hands in the way of the lateral or curtain airbags, etc...</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Proper distance from the dashboard</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Full and erected seating: Full contact of the back and the seat, and an erected rake angle for the front passenger, to avoid "submarining under the lap belt.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Awareness: Falling asleep is dangerous for passengers. The front passenger should be awake to monitor and assist the driver, and to avoid acute abdominal injuries in a collision, which are intensified when the person is asleep.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Not all seats of the car are equally safe. The middle-rear seat is considered safest, followed by the seat behind front passenger seat, then the seat behind the driver, the front passenger seat and the driver being in the greatest threat. This division changes in cars with additional seats (minivans) or when the middle-back lacks a diagonal or adjustable belt or a head-restraint.</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hH3PN-Iy3Dg/WN8CdrZIdpI/AAAAAAAAADs/SWfwOWQp420og2NyLp_fGRn5zk_ulDkcQCLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-12-Version-4.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hH3PN-Iy3Dg/WN8CdrZIdpI/AAAAAAAAADs/SWfwOWQp420og2NyLp_fGRn5zk_ulDkcQCLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-12-Version-4.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;<b>12. Check your visibility.</b> With this position, your eyes will be placed in front of the center or upper half of the glass for improved visibility. Keep your eyes relaxed rather than trying and focus, and keep the eyes up rather than down. You will see more and further away, while still being aware of your surrounding with your peripheral vision.</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Adjust your mirrors to give you a broad field of vision to the rear and sides (see in links below) at the glance of an eye or a slight tilt of the head (if you have a narrow field of vision due to illness or age). In some cars, you might also need to be ready to lean slightly forward or take a slight peek to the side ("Shoulder check") to make sure you see everything around while driving.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RwMYqHvmypQ/WN8CtMiIm2I/AAAAAAAAADw/VF13nrzioqMgCbiBAZRIPjkb8jM5d4RywCLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-13-Version-4.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RwMYqHvmypQ/WN8CtMiIm2I/AAAAAAAAADw/VF13nrzioqMgCbiBAZRIPjkb8jM5d4RywCLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-13-Version-4.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;<b>13. Keep objects in the car low, on the floor, preferably at the front seat.</b> Do not keep anything around the driver's seat, because it might slip under the pedals.</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">In general, anything not stock is not wanted: A convex mirror mounted on the center mirror, a padded cover of the steering wheel, things dangling about on your rear-view mirror -- these are all bad things that can also prove hazardous in an accident.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Windows, in this respect, are best either completely closed, slightly opened or almost fully opened, rather than half-way down, in which case the head of the driver or one of the passengers might hit it. Always keep one of your front windows slightly opened for fresh air.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Open windows on highways can create drag that impairs fuel consumption and even the stability of the car, so it's best to only keep one or two windows slightly opened at most.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">On rugged terrain, the windows should be fully closed or fully opened to avoid rocking the window's bushings.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Windows, lights and spectacles should be kept clean.</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cn5iJp87v5E/WN8C_ksw4cI/AAAAAAAAAD0/rlyVnvSxRd42Q_F4j9vbvAzhFl5C_ef_gCLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-14-Version-4.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Cn5iJp87v5E/WN8C_ksw4cI/AAAAAAAAAD0/rlyVnvSxRd42Q_F4j9vbvAzhFl5C_ef_gCLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-14-Version-4.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">&nbsp;<b>14. Adjust your rear-view mirrors to a minimal overlap and maximal visibility.</b></div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">While it is possible to fit a quality, vacuum-adhesive interior mirror to view the back seat, in long drives with the whole family, it's best for the front passenger to be the one in charge of the inside of the car, and for the driver to focus himself on the road. Do not adjust your stock interior mirror to see the back seat and do not use wide-angle convex mirrors as well.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">Likewise, avoid placing a child in the front seat, regardless of child restraints or airbags.</li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IfxKotDwYZI/WN8DbDcuKSI/AAAAAAAAAD4/07BPWACtrhA3CcXDVkm24bX2LO22ier2gCLcB/s1600/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-15-Version-4.jpg.webp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IfxKotDwYZI/WN8DbDcuKSI/AAAAAAAAAD4/07BPWACtrhA3CcXDVkm24bX2LO22ier2gCLcB/s320/aid829460-v4-728px-Adjust-Seating-to-the-Proper-Position-While-Driving-Step-15-Version-4.jpg.webp" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>&nbsp;15. Use the air-conditioning to demist fumes on the windshields, and to provide a comfortable environment</b>. It's better to use the car heat in the winter instead of driving with heavy clothing that interferes with steering and with the function of the seat belt. Keep one window slightly open for fresh air both in the summer (for oxygen) and winter (for fresh cold air).</div><br /><ul><li style="text-align: justify;">The air conditioning is there to be used -- open the A/C periodically, even in the winter, and open the heating periodically -- even in the summer -- to ensure proper mechanical function of the two over time.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">A/C air recirculation is very efficient because is blows large amounts of air. However, you need some fresh air through the driver's window. Likewise, if the windscreen is very heavily misted, opening the A/C for fresh air (along with an open window) can do better. Using external circulation is also efficient when you try to cool down a very hot cabin before entering it.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The A/C can also clear out bad smells. A few minutes before you turn off the car, close the air conditioner and air circulation, but keep the fan blowing air. This will channel out waste in the air ducts via a little hose inside it. Likewise, in a hot summer day, it's worthwhile to keep the heating blowing full time with all windows and doors open, to refresh the cabin.</li><li style="text-align: justify;">The heating is also a good choice for when the engine starts to overheat. In highways, stopping on the hard-shoulder is so perilous that it is better to keep on driving towards a safe stopping place, even in the price of causing damage to the car (like overheating the engine). Using the heating to disperse engine heat can help reaching a safe stopping place without the engine reaching critical levels of heat.</li></ul><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-643755726945675506.post-82193517963493611922017-03-23T18:25:00.002-07:002017-03-23T18:25:25.128-07:00Top 25 Ways to Save on Europe Travel<br />Europe is one of the world's most expensive travel destinations. Hotel rates are sky-high in major capitals like London, Paris, and Moscow, and the hefty cost of living (particularly in Scandinavian countries) makes everyday purchases such as meals and public transportation tickets a pricey proposition for travelers.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0jU-65IdRR4/WNRzwk1bnSI/AAAAAAAAACQ/0P0hTUJyvjcbthIM4iwXeOVpP6hvccrkgCLcB/s1600/saveoneuropetravelbig.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0jU-65IdRR4/WNRzwk1bnSI/AAAAAAAAACQ/0P0hTUJyvjcbthIM4iwXeOVpP6hvccrkgCLcB/s320/saveoneuropetravelbig.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />But that doesn't mean you can't see Europe on a budget. We've gathered 25 tips to help you save your pennies (or pounds!) on your next trip to Europe.<br /><h2>Europe Trip Planning</h2><b>1. Get rate quotes in your home currency</b>. Long before you travel, when you are booking your hotel, car rental, and other non-flight essentials, try to get quotes in U.S. dollars (or your home currency) and pay in that currency whenever possible. This way there are no surprises when your credit card statement arrives and you find out you paid a lot more than your quick back-of-the-envelope estimate when calculating the exchange rate.<br /><br /><b>2. Find your focus</b>. When planning your European itinerary, consider exploring one region or country in depth rather than bouncing around from place to place. For example, spend a week sightseeing in Florence and taking day trips to nearby towns in Tuscany rather than trying to squeeze Milan, Venice, Florence and Rome into seven or eight days. You'll not only spare yourself hours of sitting in transit, but you'll also save big on transportation expenses such as airfare or pricey train tickets. Learn more about slow travel.<br /><br /><b>3. Save on museum entrance fees</b>. Many museums offer free admission on certain days or nights of the week or at certain times of the month. (For example, the Louvre is free on the first Sunday of each month between October and March.) Check ahead of time for free admission at the museums you're interested in, and schedule your visit accordingly.<br /><br /><b>4. Find free entertainment. </b>Similarly, keep an eye out for free concerts or performances going on in local parks, churches, and other public venues. The best place to find these is in the local newspapers or entertainment listings, by asking at your hotel -- or simply by stumbling upon them.<br /><br /><b>5. Purchase a pass</b>. Most major cities offer special cards that include discounts or free admission to museums, attractions, tours and public transportation. These can be a great value if the card covers many of the attractions you were already planning to visit, but be sure to evaluate whether it's really worth it. If the card costs $40 and you're only going to use it at one or two museums, it may be better to pay a la carte.<br /><h2>Money Management</h2><b>6. Get cash from ATMs -- at a bank.</b> An ATM is your best option for a combination of a fair exchange rate and low surcharges and fees. At an ATM, you'll likely pay a transaction fee from your bank (typically 1 - 2 percent or a few dollars), but you'll also get the favorable interbank exchange rate rather than the higher rates you'll find at typical exchange bureaus. To avoid excessive fees, take out large amounts of cash at a time and store the excess in a money belt or hotel safe. For more tips, see our feature on money safety.<br /><br />You'll do well to avoid stand-alone, off-brand ATMs of the kind you often find in the back of convenience stores. These typically have the highest transaction fees; use an ATM from a reputable bank instead. (If possible, use your own bank to avoid fees from other institutions. Check your bank's website for ATM and branch locations.)<br /><br /><b>7. Use your credit card.</b> Many of the benefits of using an ATM card also apply to your credit card, particularly the strong exchange rates. However, keep in mind that many credit card companies charge fees for purchases made in foreign currencies, usually 1 - 3 percent. Choose the right card and you can avoid these fees. Capital One, for example, is a major credit card company that levies no surcharges on foreign transactions for its U.S. card holders. Check with your credit card companies to figure out which of your cards has the lowest fees for foreign purchases, and then use that one for your overseas purchases.<br /><br />Out on the road, also check the fine print to make sure that your hotel, restaurant or other outfit does not tack on a percentage fee on all credit card transactions to cover authorization fees.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--TOdp6Ob2NU/WNR0SjQF2nI/AAAAAAAAACY/genCLCN_nHUsowIIV1MgAF4rEOhktOTggCLcB/s1600/saveoneuropetravelbig3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--TOdp6Ob2NU/WNR0SjQF2nI/AAAAAAAAACY/genCLCN_nHUsowIIV1MgAF4rEOhktOTggCLcB/s320/saveoneuropetravelbig3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><b>8. Choose your counter wisely.</b> If you absolutely must use a currency exchange counter, skip the airport or train station kiosks where you are almost guaranteed to get the worst rate available. Instead, choose a bank if you can find one. Wherever you are, exchange only enough money to get the job of the moment done (whether it be a cab ride, emergency rations or the purchase of a souvenir), and then get thee to an ATM as soon as you can.<br /><br /><b>9. Fly cash (and coin) light. </b>Wait until you reach your destination before exchanging currency, and spend the bulk of your foreign currency at your destination before you go home. This way, you won't have to pick up and then dump a lot of money at an exchange booth while taking losses both coming and going.<br /><br />This is especially applicable to the piles of rattling coins you accumulate while traveling. Good luck finding a place back home that accepts a bucket of euro tin and Queen Elizabeth heads in your neighborhood. Spend all your change on the way out, or at least stop at a bank and convert it to bills; you might actually get your money back someday if you do. For more tips, see Foreign Currency.<br /><br /><b>10. Don't be afraid to haggle.</b> We wouldn't recommend trying this at Harrods or other department stores, but there are still plenty of places in Europe where bargaining is acceptable. Outdoor markets and street vendor stalls offer prime opportunities to try your haggling skills.<br /><h2>Save Money on Europe Transportation</h2><b>11. Cut out the car... </b>Most of us know that a rental car isn't really necessary (and in fact can be a hindrance) when visiting a major city. But many European nations have such comprehensive networks of trains and local buses that you may not even need a car to visit the countryside. Public transportation is available to many small towns and rural tourist attractions, which will save you not only the price of your rental but also the cost of gas (Europeans pay significantly more than Americans do). If you truly are headed out into the middle of nowhere for a day or two, plan to keep your rental for only as long as you need it rather than for your entire stay.<br /><br /><b>12. ...and the cab.</b> Most European airports are served by trains, buses, shuttles and ridesharing services that will take you downtown and back for a fraction of the cost of a cab. (Make it easier on yourself by packing light since you may have to schlep your own luggage.) Similarly, it's much cheaper to get around town via public transportation, Uber/Lift or, better yet, by walking from place to place. If you think you'll be relying heavily on a subway or bus system, a single- or multi-day pass could be a good buy.<br /><br /><b>13. Consider a rail pass</b>. Whether you're concentrating on a single country or traveling all over the Continent, there may be a Eurail pass that will save you money. Before purchasing a pass, carefully plan out how many train trips you will take and calculate the total cost of point-to-point tickets at RailEurope.com. Keep in mind that short trips are relatively inexpensive -- so if you're going to be sticking to a very small area, a pass may not be worth the cost.<br /><br /><b>14. Overnight it.</b> If you're planning a lengthy train journey, consider traveling on an overnight train. This way you won't waste valuable daylight hours in transit, and you'll save on the cost of a night's lodging as well. See our Europe train tips. Or take a quick flight with one of Europe's many low-cost carriers such as Ryanair and easyJet. Learn more about international discount airlines.<br /><h2>Save on Meals in Europe</h2><b>15. Go grocery shopping</b>. Stock up on bottled water, fruit and snacks at grocery stores rather than tourist shops. You'll pay what the locals pay and often get a wider selection too.<br /><br /><b>16. Learn to love lunch</b>. Instead of eating a pricey multi-course dinner, make lunch your big meal of the day. Often you can enjoy similar dishes for half the price.<br /><br /><b>17. Don't overtip. </b>Americans are used to tipping 18 - 20 percent in restaurants, but in most European nations, 10 percent is the norm unless the service was truly extraordinary. Check first to see whether a service charge has already been added to your bill; if so, you usually don't need to leave anything additional. For country-specific tipping information, refer to a good guidebook, do a Google search or ask at the local tourist office. And don't miss our Tips for Tipping Abroad.<br /><br /><b>18. Save on breakfast.</b> If breakfast is included in your hotel's nightly rate, then be sure to take advantage of it. But if it's not, skip the overpriced room service. You can almost certainly find a much cheaper croissant and the cup of coffee at the cafe down the street. Ask your hotel's concierge or front desk about what's nearby.<br /><br /><b>19. Be wise about wine. </b>If you're dining out, order the house wine; you'll save money, and in places like France and Italy, you may be surprised at how good it is. Want a drink out on your hotel balcony? Pick up a bottle at the local liquor store and bring it back to your room for an affordable taste of luxury.<br /><br /><b>20. Choose wisely.</b> To find authentic and affordable food, skip the restaurants with the tourist-friendly English-language menus out front and seek out places where you see plenty of locals. (The Google Translate app can help you make sense of the menu.) Don't hesitate to ask your hotel concierge to recommend affordable restaurants in the area.<br /><br /><b>21. Follow the locals' lead for cheap eats.</b> Eat the plentiful pizza in Italy, grab a quick baguette sandwich in France or nosh on takeaway curry in London.<br /><h2>Save on Europe Lodging</h2><b>22. Consider a rental.</b> Choosing a vacation rental instead of a standard hotel has several cost advantages. Renting an apartment or house often gives you more space for less money (so it's a particularly economical option if you're traveling with a group or family), and having kitchen facilities means you can cook for yourself rather than spending a lot on overpriced restaurant meals.<br /><br /><b>23. Don't count out hostels. </b>Many travelers steer clear of hostels, thinking that they're just for 20-something backpackers who don't mind sleeping 10 to a room. However, you may not know that many hostels also offer private rooms, some with ensuite bathrooms as well. They may not be luxurious, but if you're looking for a clean, basic room at a low price, it's worth checking out the hostel scene.<br /><br /><b>24. Look at a location. </b>To get a lower hotel rate, consider staying outside the city center. As long as you're located somewhere near a public transit line, it will still be pretty convenient -- and you could save big bucks.<br /><br /><b>25. Get creative.</b> Discover other affordable possibilities.Driving Directionshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06530428894130803433noreply@blogger.com0